President

President
Lake Wales, Florida

Bok Tower Gardens (the Gardens) has offered some of Florida’s most remarkable experiences to more than 20 million visitors since its dedication in 1929 by President Calvin Coolidge. Located approximately 55 miles southwest of Orlando and east of Tampa near Lake Wales, the Gardens was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993. Beginning as a nature preserve and native plant garden, the first section of the garden was opened in 1924 and dedicated to “provide a retreat of repose and natural beauty for the human, a refuge for the bird, and a place for the student of southern plant and animal life” by its founder Edward W. Bok. It was one of the first public gardens comprised entirely of native plants. The Gardens were designed by the Olmsted Brothers Firm, which had been working in the adjacent Mountain Lake Community since 1915. Today, the combined files of Mountain Lake and Bok Tower Gardens are the largest in the National Olmsted Archives.

The next President will guide the Gardens through the last phase of the 2022-2027 strategic plan and build upon the strong success of the past years. In 2029, the Gardens will celebrate its centennial, and the next President will have the opportunity to lead the organization through that commemoration and drive excitement and fundraising initiatives.  
 
The President provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for Bok Tower Gardens. This role requires a commitment to promote, inform, and preserve the essence of Bok Tower Gardens. The position will guide the senior management team, oversee high-level strategy, manage a $10 million annual budget, spearhead fundraising efforts, foster community engagement, and develop programs that fulfill the Gardens’ mission and goals.
 
The ideal candidate is a charismatic and outgoing individual who is comfortable being the face of the organization, engaging with donors, guests, and stakeholders in meaningful ways. With strong leadership qualities and a servant leader approach, this person will inspire and empower their team, providing autonomy while fostering collaboration and growth.
 
The candidate should possess exceptional financial and business acumen, coupled with a pragmatic and optimistic outlook. The position demands a creative thinker and calculated risk-taker, unafraid to embrace technology and innovation to enhance guest and community experiences. A high level of emotional intelligence (EQ) and executive functioning is essential, enabling them to read people effectively, build trust, and navigate complex situations with grace and determination.
 
This leader will have a deep respect for the legacy of Edward Bok, the Olmsted firm, and a commitment to preserving and maintaining the assets of the Gardens. Experience with gardens or public spaces is highly valued, as is a love for the arts and music.
 
The salary range for this position is between $235,000-265,000 and will be commensurate with experience. Benefits include but are not limited to paid time off, (9) paid holidays, healthcare/dental/vision/life insurance, and an employer contribution to a 403(B) retirement.
 
Applications and nominations are being received by Kittleman & Associates, LLC. To apply, please send a current resume and letter of interest to http://www.kittlemansearch.com/bok-tower-gardens-president  (click on the Apply button at the bottom of the page). For best consideration, please submit your materials by February 20, 2026.

For more information on Bok Tower Gardens, please visit https://boktowergardens.org/.