The Board of Trustees of the Center for Plant Conservation (CPC) seeks a Chief Executive Officer to lead CPC’s operations and strategic initiatives toward achieving significant impact on rare plant conservation and environmental resiliency.

ABOUT CPC

The CPC is a unique network of institutional partners that unites leading plant conservation professionals from botanical gardens & arboreta and other plant- and conservation-focused organizations to work collaboratively to save imperiled plants throughout their native ranges in the United States and Canada.

CPC is based at the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, located on the grounds of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, California, a wildlife and plant conservation center operated by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (a CPC Conservation Partner). CPC has an annual operating budget of over $1.7M and works in close collaboration with a network of more than 80 conservation partners.

CPC’s partner institutions maintain the CPC National Collection of Endangered Plants, one of the world’s foremost wild-plant conservation collections. By working to collect and manage living seeds, plants, and tissue taken from imperiled plants, CPC helps secure these species and advances research to further preserve and protect them for future generations. CPC’s annual National Meeting, its website and Rare Plant Academy, publications, and other resources serve to position the organization as a leading voice in the global practice of conservation of plants.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Center for Plant Conservation seeks a visionary leader to move the organization forward in its mission to conserve imperiled plants and support global environmental resiliency. Working collaboratively with an engaged Board of Trustees, CPC’s CEO is responsible for stewarding the organization’s ongoing operations, member network, long-term strategy, and financial security. Leading a dedicated staff and consultant team, the CEO serves as the voice and face of the organization, frequently communicating with both public and scientific audiences. CPC’s leader oversees the development of CPC programs and maintains strong, mutually reinforcing relationships with a dynamic, cohesive network of partner institutions whose research and initiatives form the foundation of CPC’s impact.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of executive leadership experience, including operational and financial oversight, a fundraising track record, and an innovative approach to programming. They must be motivated by a clear and driving passion for nature conservation. Qualified candidates should be knowledgeable about conservation and able to inspire others to understand the value of plant biodiversity. A background in botany/plant science, horticulture, environmental sciences, or a conservation-related field is desirable. Strong interpersonal skills are essential, including staff leadership and development, a collaborative approach with the Board, and the ability to maintain strong relationships with partner institutions and funders. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader with the ability to chart a strategic path forward while providing deep attention to detail necessary for the organization’s success. The ideal CEO will have:

• Significant leadership and management experience in positions of increasing responsibility and authority.
• A commitment to the mission of CPC and the conservation of the natural world, and to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion.
• Experience guiding an organization through periods of change, and in developing strategic plans and making objective, data-driven decisions
• A history of working collaboratively and in a leadership role with an engaged Board.
• Skills in organizational development, administration, and personnel management.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and demonstrated experience working with the media and speaking with diverse audiences.
• Experience managing a complex budget with multiple funding sources and grant obligations.
• A dedication to fundraising, including donor cultivation, grant writing, and public agency partnerships.

COMPENSATION

A competitive compensation package, including a comprehensive benefits package, will be offered based on experience. The expected annual salary range for this position is $150,000–$170,000. Relocation assistance will be offered if necessary.

LOCATION AND WORKING CONDITIONS

CPC is currently based at the Beckman Center for Conservation Research, located on the grounds of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, California. A hybrid remote/in-office situation is possible. Regular travel is expected.  Most work will be in an office setting, using a computer and attending meetings. This is a full time, exempt position.