Chief Executive Officer

About the Role

The Best Human Capital & Advisory Group partnered with the American Hort Association is seeking a President & Chief Executive Officer to build upon the solid foundation of one of the leading industry trade associations in advancing the organization’s advocacy of the Horticulture industry.

American Hort is the national trade association representing the U.S. ornamental horticulture industry. The association serves businesses that grow, distribute, sell, install, and maintain ornamental plants and related products. Its mission is to help member businesses perform better, grow faster, and remain competitive in a complex and evolving economic, regulatory, and labor environment.

American Hort operates as a 501(c)(6) trade association and is supported by membership dues, events and conferences, education programs, sponsor ships, and partnerships. The association also operates the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), the American Hort Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization that advances industry research, scholarships, leadership development, and education. The CEO has oversight of HRI in partnership with key staff, with fiduciary and governance oversight provided by the HRI Board of Directors.

The association’s headquarters are in Columbus, Ohio, with a policy presence in Washington, D.C., reflecting the importance of federal advocacy to the industry.

Does your career direction point you toward leading a respected national organization at a pivotal moment for the industry? Would you benefit from partnering with an engaged board and committed volunteer leaders? Do you have a passion for shaping the future of a diverse, innovative, and economically significant industry? Will you find tremendous satisfaction building on a durable foundation while helping define the next chapter of American Hort’s impact?

The President & CEO serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of American Hort, responsible for advancing the organization’s mission, strengthening member value, ensuring financial sustainability, and representing the industry at the national level. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO leads a high-performing staff team, partners closely with volunteer leadership, and serves as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the industry.

Current President & CEO Ken Fisher is stepping down after a highly successful ten years, during which he led the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and into a stronger financial position. This leadership allowed American Hort to advance critical governance, create impactful industry education programs, and propel the horticulture industry’s flagship trade show and conference (Cultivate) into one of the most respected.

In addition to leading the trade association, the CEO provides executive leadership, staffing, and operational oversight for the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), ensuring strong alignment with governance, programmatic impact, and financial stewardship in partnership with the HRI Board of Directors.

While mission and impact guide American Hort’s priorities, metrics, and investments, it is a point of pride that the organization also operates with the discipline of a business. This role requires a proven executive leader with strong strategic instincts, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments while driving results.

• Lead the development and execution of a clear, compelling strategic vision aligned with member needs and industry trends.
• Translate strategy into measurable priorities, outcomes, and organizational focus.
• Anticipate and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities affecting the horticulture industry.

• Partner effectively with the Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and key committees to support strong governance and decision-making.
• Build trust-based relationships with volunteer leaders and engage them meaningfully in advancing the organization’s work.
• Support and coordinate governance activities of the HRI…