Position Title: Executive Director
Organization: Delaware Nursery & Landscape Association (DNLA)
Location: Remote with statewide travel (Delaware)
Position Type: This position averages approximately 25 hours per week; however, the candidate must be flexible and available to work additional hours, up to full-time, during peak periods or busy times of the year.
About the Organization:
The Delaware Nursery & Landscape Association (DNLA) is a non-profit trade organization that serves Delaware’s horticulture-related businesses and the companies that supply them. The DNLA collaborates with the Delaware Department of Agriculture and Delaware Cooperative Extension to shape legislative and administrative policies that impact Delaware’s green industry.
DNLA is dedicated to advancing the horticulture and landscaping profession through education, advocacy, and certification. The association supports its 175+ member companies and agencies by hosting annual conferences, trade shows, and certification programs, as well as providing opportunities for professional development and collaboration. Through these efforts, DNLA fosters growth, innovation, and sustainability within Delaware's green industry.
Position Summary:
The Executive Director serves as the chief administrator for the DNLA, responsible for overseeing all aspects of the organization's operations, strategic initiatives, and member engagement. This role involves collaboration with the board of directors, member companies, and external partners to achieve the association's mission and goals. The Executive Director will lead DNLA’s educational programs, certification initiatives, and statewide campaigns while managing day-to-day operations and ensuring financial sustainability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Organizational Leadership & Management:
- Oversee the strategic direction and operational management of DNLA, including developing and executing the strategic plan.
- Develop and manage annual budgets to ensure financial health and sustainability.
- Schedule, prepare, and lead quarterly board meetings.
- Program & Event Coordination:
- Plan, promote, and manage three annual educational conferences and various workshops serving green industry professionals (e.g., 1,000 participants in 2024).
- Collaborate with cooperative extension and state agencies to organize and deliver educational and recertification courses.
- Manage and administer the state horticulture certification program.
- Communication & Outreach:
- Develop and implement external communications strategies, including email campaigns, newsletters, website updates, and social media content, to increase organizational awareness and engagement.
- Represent DNLA as an active participant and gubernatorial appointee on statewide initiatives, committees, and advisory boards.
Advocacy & Partnership Development:
- Collaborate with state agencies and industry stakeholders on initiatives such as a statewide nutrient management campaign.
- Build and maintain relationships with DNLA members, industry partners, and the broader community to strengthen the organization’s impact.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, landscape architecture, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Proven ability to manage non-profit organizations or green industry-related programs.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, QuickBooks Pro Plus, and WordPress.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Experience planning and managing events and educational programs.
- Ability to travel statewide as needed for meetings and events.
Work Environment:
- This is a remote position requiring access to a home office setup.
- Statewide travel will be necessary for board meetings, events, and partnership engagement.
DNLA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.
