Director, Lifelong Learning

Description JOB SUMMARY: The Director, Lifelong Learning leads the vision, strategy, and management of the Arboretum's lifelong learning portfolio, overseeing a diverse range of educational experiences, events, demonstrations, workshops, lectures, cultural offerings, and community initiatives that inspire learners of all ages and deepen connections with nature.

Reporting to the Vice President, Learning, the Director provides leadership for portfolio planning, operations, staff, budgets, partnerships, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver innovative, mission-driven experiences that engage diverse audiences, enrich the guest experience, and advance the Arboretum's mission and strategic priorities.

Please note: The estimated start date for this position is January 4, 2027.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership and Program Development Provide strategic leadership and oversight for lifelong learning experiences, including adult and multiage programs, adult classes, family workshops, and sensory events. Develop, implement, execute, and evaluate engaging, audience-appropriate experiences that are inclusive, accessible, and aligned with the Arboretum’s mission.

Identify opportunities to expand experiences, increase participation, strengthen earned revenue, and engage new audiences. Team Leadership Hire, supervise and develop learning team managers by establishing goals, clarifying expectations, providing coaching and supporting professional growth. Provide guidance and feedback to staff and facilitators to support consistent, high-quality program delivery and professional growth.

Learning Experience Leadership Design and execute all aspects of lifelong learning experiences, including programming Develop and manage project timelines, including responsibilities, milestones, deliverables, and deadlines for experiences, events and departmental priorities. Evaluate departmental processes and implement continuous improvements that strengthen organizational effectiveness and program delivery.

Budget and Performance Management Develop and manage budgets, staffing, resources, revenue goals, and expenses, ensuring fiscal responsibility while supporting growth and innovation. Oversee data collection, impact assessment, and reporting for institutional priorities, grants, strategic planning, and program evaluation.

Partnerships and Collaboration Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations, cultural institutions, presenters, instructors, and other stakeholders to expand program reach and impact. Collaborate with internal teams and departments to coordinate logistics, event operations, communications, facility needs, staffing and guest experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree; education, museum studies, public programs, community engagement, hospitality, event management or related fields preferred 7 years of applicable experience, preferably including lifelong learning, community engagement, and/or event planning and management Proven ability to supervise teams, develop staff, and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation Experience in budget management and long-term planning Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management software.

Ability to work occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays as required. Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements, including a background check and drug screening. KEY COMPETENCIES: Collaborative leadership, relationship building, and team development Strong knowledge of event planning and program design Project management, organization, and prioritization across multiple concurrent initiatives Strategic problem-solving and sound decision-making Data-informed evaluation and continuous improvement To help you stay energized, engaged, and inspired, we offer a wide range of benefits including comprehensive healthcare, a 401K, and Paid Time Off (PTO).

The mission of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is to be a garden for all that enriches lives through beauty, learning, and connection. We are a world-class sanctuary where people and plants flourish in the natural environment. The Dallas Arboretum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, ancestry, national origin, place of birth, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, genetic characteristics or disability unrelated to job performance.