Director Student Programs

As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.

Programs has strategic, operational, and budgetary oversight for a 2-year Professional Horticulture program, as well as the domestic and international internships.  Specific responsibilities include: 

• Creating the strategic direction and development of student programs, ensuring there is a high level of excellence through both the learning and experience components.
• Leading the ongoing evaluation of the programs through developing and monitoring key metrics to ensure the programs are supporting Longwood’s mission.
• Ensuring all programs are embracing and building diversity and capacity in the public horticulture profession.
• Providing ongoing oversight for the safety and wellbeing of the students, in addition to ensuring the programs are delivering an excellent academic experience.
• Administering and growing Longwood’s International J-1 Visa Intern and Trainee Programs, within the specified federal guidelines.
• Actively engaging in cross-departmental collaboration to maximize the recruitment and retention of students.
• Serving as an ambassador for Longwood Gardens’ student programs at conferences and related professional development forums.

The ideal candidate will have proven leadership, strategic thinking skills and experience with student program development from concept to delivery.  Additional requirements include:

• A minimum of 7 years of experience in a similar leadership role, with excellent communication, organizational and collaboration skills
• A minimum of 5 years of experience working with higher education programs and students
• Master’s degree in education or a related field preferred
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with experience managing staff, faculty, and students
• Experience with residential student programs
• International travel and experience working with international students is preferred
• Proficient in Microsoft office applications and has an understanding of online learning platforms and modalities
• Excellent verbal communication, strong interpersonal and professional writing skills
• Ability to work flexible hours on both weekdays and weekend, as needed to support programs

Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.