Director of Public Programs

Key Responsibilities

Program Strategy & Development

• Design and oversee a dynamic portfolio of paid & free public programs, including lectures, workshops, theme weekend events, tours, book talks and seasonal events that extend Wave Hill’s reach and increase revenue.
• Develop interpretive strategies that connect visitors to the garden’s collections, landscapes, visual and performing art, education, and mission.
• Manage relationships with program partners, artists, and vendors, overseeing contracts and ensuring seamless event logistics.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and audience impact through data analysis, audience feedback, and best practices, using results to guide future growth.
• Maintain a keen awareness of emerging trends in horticulture, the arts and cultural programming to ensure offerings are relevant and distinctive.
• Lead the Programming Committee meetings and engage stakeholders to keep offerings aligned with Wave Hill’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

Community Engagement

• Collaborate closely with the Manager of Community Engagement and Access to create inclusive and welcoming programming and practices.
• Build and sustain partnerships with nonprofits, cultural institutions, community groups, and peer organizations to broaden Wave Hill’s reach and impact.
• Develop outreach initiatives and goals that expand access and engagement through on-site and virtual programs.
• Represent Wave Hill Public Garden at public events and in media appearances.

Budget & Finance

• Manage the Public Programs budget, aligning spending with organizational goals and identifying opportunities to grow revenue.
• Forecast costs, analyze attendance data, and optimize pricing strategies.
• Prepare reports and recommend adjustments based on ROI and community impact.

Leadership & Management

• Lead, mentor, and support staff to foster growth, collaboration, and accountability. Leading a team of 3.
• Build a positive, inclusive team culture that values innovation and continuous improvement.
• Serve as a bridge between departments to ensure cohesive programming and shared goals.
• Facilitate communication and problem-solving across departments.

Fundraising & Communications

• Partner with the Philanthropy Department to secure sponsorships, grants, and donations for public programs; develop engaging programs tailored for supporters and members.
• Collaboration with Director of Marketing and Communications on promotional strategies for Public Programs’ seasonal programming.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, museum studies, or production; master's degree preferred but not require
• 5+ years of experience in public programming, preferably in a cultural or environmental institution
• Proven leadership, team management and budget management skills
• Strong communication, organizational, interpersonal skills and project management abilities
• Passion for nature, art, sustainability, accessibility, and community-centered learning
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities, preferred but not required
• Cultural competency to work with diverse and local communities
• Ability to work outdoors and participate in labor-intensive tasks
• Working knowledge of video and audio equipment
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite; knowledge of Microsoft Teams, Microsoft SharePoint, Zoom

Schedule and Salary  

This is a full-time position reporting to the Chief Philanthropy & Engagement Officer. The flexible schedule is Monday to Friday with some nights and weekends.

The salary is $100,000 plus benefits including: medical, dental, vision insurance; paid time off; 401k, pension plan and life insurance.

The hiring salary or salary range is dependent on the scope of work and responsibilities of the position. Salaries offered to candidates are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, skills, training and certifications, education, and other factors in addition to the scope of responsibilities of the specific position.

Wave Hill is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Wave Hill is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact humanreources@wavehill.org.