Executive Director

Greenwood Gardens Short Hills, NJ (In Office) (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Greenwood Gardens (Greenwood) is a treasured public garden, formerly a private estate incorporated as a non‑profit organization in 2003 that has been accessible to the public since 2013. Located in Short Hills, New Jersey, Greenwood is an enchanted hideaway, graced by terraced gardens, woodlands, meadows, grottoes, fountains, Arts and Crafts follies, and winding paths.

Named by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism to its 2025 list of the “One Dozen Must‑Stroll Garden State Gardens,” Greenwood is at an exciting moment in its storied history. The recently completed restoration of its magnificent Cascade, a 110‑year‑old seven‑tier fountain feature, is drawing record numbers of visitors who are eager to experience the restorative effect of the sight and sound of flowing water.

At the same time, Greenwood is entering a critical new phase of growth focused on further developing its donor base, continuing to make improvements to the site, and identifying opportunities to ensure Greenwood’s continued financial independence and sustainability.

To further this positive momentum, Greenwood Gardens seeks an inspirational Executive Director to serve as its primary spokesperson, fundraiser, and advocate. The Executive Director will provide visionary and strategic leadership for the organization’s mission and ensure the implementation of effective strategic and facilities plans to support this mission. This creative leader will build on the organization’s strong history of conservation and environmental education to further the mission through the continual development of new strategies, community partners, and allies.

Serving as the public face of the organization, the Executive Director must possess integrity, excellent outreach skills, and a broad appeal in order to retain and advance Greenwood’s favorable reputation in the community and beyond.

The Executive Director will report to the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees and be accountable to the entire Board of Trustees. S/he will lead a team of 11 full‑time, one part‑time, and six seasonal employees in development, finance, administration, public engagement, facilities, and marketing and communications. The successful candidate will possess a strong aesthetic sensibility aligned with Greenwood’s historic structures, ornaments, horticultural displays, and marketing identity.

The Executive Director will collaborate closely with Greenwood’s Standing Committees to advance organizational goals and strengthen governance.

Greenwood Gardens has retained Freeman Philanthropic Services, LLC to assist in this important recruitment. Please send all confidential inquiries, applications, and nominations directly to FPS via email at G