Bullington Gardens Director

Bullington Gardens Director

NC State Extension Forestry – Hendersonville, NC

Position Type: 12‑Month Recurring, Full‑Time – Permanent (FTE 1.0) Based in NC County offices. The employee reaps the benefits of employment at NC State University.

Bullington Gardens is a 501(c)(3) non‑profit botanical garden and horticultural education center serving Henderson County and surrounding communities. The Director leads the organization’s strategic vision and operational sustainability.

• Develop and manage fundraising, member and donor relations and secure grants to support operations.
• Conduct public speaking, outreach, and social media engagement to promote Bullington Gardens.
• Coordinate activities with partners, including NC Cooperative Extension and Henderson County Public Schools.
• Collaborate with the Education Coordinator to support programs.
• Work with volunteers in sales and fundraising events, primarily staffing and running events.
• Perform day‑to‑day fiscal management: budgeting, financial reporting and timely government filings.
• Provide regular updates to the Board of Directors and collaborate to strengthen board capabilities.
• Shape the organization’s vision, oversee the property and implement the Strategic Plan and Property Master Plan.
• Manage staff and volunteers, fostering a warm, welcoming culture.
• Travel within the county is required; occasional district and state travel may be necessary.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree with cumulative GPA of 2.5 overall (or 3.0 in an agricultural or related field) – GPA waived for NCCE Program Associates with a Bachelor’s.
• Bachelor’s degree and at least one‑half of Master’s coursework with GPA 3.0 or higher in an agricultural or related field, or completed Master’s degree in an agricultural or related field.

Required Skills and Experience

• Ability to work with broad audiences and be a team player.
• Independent worker with minimal supervision.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Multitasking ability, switching tasks quickly.
• Motivation and initiative on assigned tasks.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in fundraising, budgeting, customer service, and social media marketing.
• Team‑oriented attitude fostering a positive work environment.
• Experience with web page management, desktop publishing, and newsletter design.
• Horticultural background and previous Cooperative Extension experience.

Physical Requirements – Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally and 30 lbs frequently, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, and reach. May encounter extreme heat, humidity, and sun exposure. Adequate hearing and vision with correction as needed.

Required License or Certification

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

NC State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations are encouraged to contact 919‑515‑2135 or workatncstate for assistance.