VNLA Executive Director

By kristinamackulin | February 25, 2026 | Comments Off on VNLA Executive Director

We seek a strong, independent administrator with proven experience to be the “face” of our organization and execute our vision and mission.  The position requires the day-to-day management/office responsibilities of the VNLA, including communications, membership related tasks, management of VNLA programs and events, financial oversight/reporting, and up-keep of records.  During this engagement as executive director, you may be in contact with or directly working with proprietary information. All information must be treated with strict confidence and may not be used at any time or in any manner in work you may do with others in our industry.

The position also requires excellent communication/people skills, experience in grant writing, fundraising, membership and public development.  This person works collaboratively with the governing Board of Directors and various VNLA committees, as well as directly with members.  We are seeking a person who enjoys interacting with people and who can help us grow our organization.

Reports to:  a Board of Directors

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Facilitate/attend 5 board meetings a year, including providing financial reports.
  • Facilitate/attend VNLA committee meetings.
  • Maintain/manage VNLA membership & VCH Program database and annual renewal process.
  • Weekly email communications with the membership on news and events and create weekly social media posts.
  • Work with the VNLA bookkeeper to produce quarterly financial reports and develop annual budget working directly with the Treasurer and Board of Directors. Work with bookkeeper and accountant to ensure yearly filing of taxes and other tax documents.
  • Facilitate, organize, attend, and manage VNLA annual educational events, including a winter and summer meeting and smaller monthly gatherings/twilight meetings.
  • Facilitate and organize VNLA Programs including the VCH Program, the annual VNLA Awards, the Industry Awards Program, the VNLA Plastic Pot Recycling Program, and the Vermont Blooms Initiative.
  • Produce a quarterly publication The Dirt.
  • Maintain/edit the VNLA website as appropriate (WordPress) and work with webmaster as needed.
  • Work directly with the Volunteer Project Outreach Committee to facilitate volunteer planting projects.
  • Develop and implement annual marketing campaigns in collaboration with the board and issue press releases as needed.
  • Produce an Annual Report in collaboration with the board to be shared with the membership according to the VNLA bylaws.
  • Apply for grants and fundraising opportunities when they become available.
  • Collaborate with other state agencies and educational institutions related to the VNLA’s mission and vision. This also includes working with the VNLA’s Legislative Committee to stay up-to-date on state and national issues that affect the horticulture industry.
  • Storage of VNLA digital/paper records.

Qualifications

  • Strong people/communication skills.
  • Strong and sound judgment, professionalism, and a positive attitude.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Good time management skills, problem solver, and is able to work independently.
  • Demonstrated success with event/meeting planning, sponsorship/donor building, and fundraising.
  • Good oral, written and presentation skills.
  • Must have knowledge in the use of computer software (Microsoft Word, Excel, WordPress, QuickBooks, Desktop publishing program such as Pages, PowerPoint, and other Mac software.
  • Willingness to travel to events as needed.
  • Flexible schedule, some evenings will be necessary.
  • Degree in education, business or equivalent is required.
  • Preferred experience in executive management.
  • Preferred experience with nonprofit organizations & boards.

Compensation & Scope of Work

The Executive Director position is a part-time work from home; independent contracted position renewed annually from the date of the signed contract.  Over the course of the calendar year the busier months are September through March.  The nature of the duties allow for flexibility during the workday/work week.  The salary is $33,000 and the work is remote and on-site for events.   Please note that the VNLA is the producer of the Vermont Flower Show (held biennially), which is a separate contracted paid position regarding the management of that event.

Apply

Please submit a cover letter and your resume to hello@vnlavt.org.  You will receive a confirmation email.