Friends of the National Arboretum

Executive Director

Friends of the National Arboretum, Washington

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The Executive Director (ED) of Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction, driving the organization’s mission and goals forward. Working in close partnership with the U.S. National Arboretum (USNA), the ED will lead all fundraising initiatives, oversee program execution, and ensure impactful delivery of organizational priorities. As the primary ambassador for FONA, the ED will build and nurture strong relationships with partners, donors, and stakeholders. This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic and collaborative leader to build on FONA’s strong foundation, deepen its impact, and guide the organization into its next chapter—especially as it celebrates the USNA’s 100th anniversary and expands its public engagement efforts.
Essential Functions
Leadership & Strategic Direction

Provides visionary and strategic leadership aligned with the organization's mission and guidance from the Board of Directors
Translates high-level goals into actionable plans that deliver measurable outcomes and long-term impact
Partners with the Board to ensure effective governance, strategic alignment, and organizational sustainability
Navigates complex public-private partnerships with diplomacy and clarity, particularly the strategic relationship with the USNA

Management & Organizational Oversight

Oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, in partnership with the COO, with direct leadership of the Development (individual, corporate, institutional), Membership, and Communications functions
Provides strategic oversight of the organizational budget in partnership with the COO and Board of Directors, ensuring fiscal responsibility, alignment with strategic priorities, and compliance with nonprofit financial best practices
Ensures effective, future-focused management and professional development of all staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture
Champions a culture where individuals are supported fairly, treated with respect, and empowered to contribute fully
Maintains transparent and consistent communication with the Board, providing regular updates on organizational progress and key initiatives

External Relations & Partnerships

Serves as the public face and primary spokesperson of the organization, embodying a positive, solution-oriented presence that reinforces credibility and mission alignment
Liaises with USNA leadership and staff, nurturing strong, cooperative relationships and managing shared priorities
Cultivates and expands partnerships with nonprofits, government agencies, businesses, volunteers, and community members to strengthen the organization’s reach and impact
Navigates transitions of partner responsibilities into the organization’s portfolio, in coordination with USNA and the Board
Represents the organization with diplomacy and integrity, building broad-based support through outreach, advocacy, and community engagement
Provides strategic oversight of the Communications team, ensuring that messaging aligns with organizational priorities, public engagement goals, and mission impact

Fundraising & Resource Development

Leads the development and execution of a comprehensive fundraising strategy in partnership with the Board and senior staff, including efforts tied to USNA’s 100th anniversary celebration
Maintains and grows individual donations, foundation support, and grant funding, meeting or exceeding agreed-upon annual targets
Finalizes the Canopy Trail fundraising initiative and construction agreement, ensuring successful implementation and alignment with organizational goals
Identifies and develops new revenue-generating opportunities beyond traditional fundraising, including mission-aligned earned income, partnerships, or events, and leads the design and implementation of sustainable models to support organizational growth

Competencies

Visionary, values-driven, and strategic leadership with the ability to inspire and guide organizational growth
Demonstrated success in building and sustaining public-private partnerships to advance mission-aligned initiatives
Proven expertise in fundraising strategy and resource development across diverse revenue streams
Agile, adaptive thinker with strong problem-solving skills; comfortable navigating complex, evolving environments
Inclusive and collaborative team leader with a focus on staff development, mentorship, and organizational culture
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively across diverse audiences including funders, educators, scientists, public officials, volunteers, and community members
Results-oriented mindset with a track record of achieving measurable goals and driving accountability
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the professionalism to represent the organization externally and internally

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in a related field (e.g., nonprofit management, public administration, environmental studies) preferred
Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in the nonprofit, public, or philanthropic sectors
Demonstrated success leading fundraising efforts, including major gifts, institutional giving, and donor cultivation strategies
Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines under pressure
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours as necessary

Salary Range
$160,000-$200,000
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Seniority level

Seniority level
Executive

Employment type

Employment type
Full-time

Job function

Job function
Business Development and Sales
Industries
Internet Publishing

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