Director of Events

The Columbus Botanical Garden is a cherished 40-acre community asset dedicated to bridging the connection between people and nature. This beautiful and expansive garden serves as a sanctuary for education and inspiration about the natural world. Celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, the Garden offers a unique setting for visitors of all ages to explore and learn. It hosts various educational programs, public events, and private functions that inspire environmental appreciation and stewardship, making it a vital resource within the community.

Events are a cornerstone of the Columbus Botanical Garden's mission, playing an essential role in driving engagement, education, and revenue growth. The Garden is seeking a strategic and hands-on Director of Events to lead this crucial function. This leadership position is responsible for managing all private event rentals, signature Garden events, and community programming that collectively form a significant revenue stream. The Director of Events will drive the growth and enhancement of these functions while elevating the overall guest experience through expert planning and execution.

Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Director of Events will lead and develop an events team comprising full-time and seasonal staff. This role requires participation as a key member of the Garden's strategic leadership team, contributing to broader organizational planning and initiatives. Additionally, the successful candidate will participate in board meetings and provide detailed reports to guide decision-making processes.

This role encompasses full ownership of the event lifecycle—managing all aspects from initial sales and booking through to the flawless execution of events. Key events under the Director's supervision include signature programs such as SHINE, Gala in the Garden, and the Plant Sale, among others. The Director will also collaborate cross-functionally with other departments including Development, Education, Horticulture, and Visitor Services to ensure seamless coordination and maximize event impact.

In addition to traditional event management, the Director of Events will seek innovative opportunities for new revenue streams, partnerships, and unique event programming to expand the Garden's reach and financial sustainability. Oversight of food and beverage operations connected to events will also be a critical responsibility, ensuring quality and guest satisfaction.

This opportunity offers an experienced event professional the chance to leverage their leadership abilities, hospitality expertise, and creative vision within a dynamic nonprofit setting dedicated to environmental education and community enrichment. The Columbus Botanical Garden values proactive, detail-oriented individuals who thrive in a hands-on role requiring strategic thinking, effective communication, and collaborative problem-solving. Evening and weekend availability is necessary to meet the demands of scheduled events and community activities.

By joining the Columbus Botanical Garden as the Director of Events, candidates will take on a pivotal leadership role that influences the Garden's public profile, financial success, and community engagement. This position is ideal for those passionate about environmental stewardship and skilled in orchestrating memorable, high-quality events that inspire and connect diverse audiences.