President and CEO

Kalaheo, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi

The National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) seeks an inspiring and visionary President & CEO to lead one of the world’s most significant tropical plant conservation organizations into its next era of impact, growth, and global leadership. NTBG is a congressionally chartered, privately funded nonprofit dedicated to restoring flourishing relationships between plants, people, and places through conservation, science, education, and cultural stewardship.

Headquartered on the island of Kauaʻi, NTBG encompasses an extraordinary network of five gardens, preserves, and research centers across Hawaiʻi and Florida. Home to world-renowned living collections, the largest assemblages of native Hawaiian plants and breadfruit cultivars in existence, and internationally respected scientific and conservation programs, NTBG stands at the forefront of protecting tropical biodiversity while honoring the cultural traditions and communities connected to these landscapes.

The next President & CEO will partner closely with the Board of Directors to advance NTBG’s mission, strengthen its financial sustainability, elevate its global visibility, and build meaningful relationships across Hawaiʻi, the continental United States, and the international conservation community. This leader will inspire and unify approximately 130 staff, champion innovation and collaboration, expand philanthropic support, and serve as a passionate ambassador for the organization and its five remarkable gardens.

The ideal candidate will be a collaborative, culturally respectful, and mission-driven executive with demonstrated success in organizational leadership, fundraising, strategic planning, team development, and external relationship building. Experience leading a complex nonprofit, conservation, cultural, educational, museum, botanical garden, or similarly mission-driven institution is preferred. A deep appreciation for Hawaiian culture, community engagement, and conservation is essential.

How to Apply:

If you want to lead this impactful organization, please confidentially submit a current resume and cover letter to Kittleman & Associates https://www.kittlemansearch.com/opportunities/president-ceo-national-tropical-botanical-garden. The cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your passion for National Tropical Botanical Garden’s mission and your leadership experience in current or prior roles.

For more information about National Tropical Botanical Garden, visit https://ntbg.org/.

To apply, visit: https://apptrkr.com/9864415