Executive Director Experience and Engagement

Work type: Full time

Salary: Salary not specified

Grade: As per advertisement

Occupation: Executive Management

Location: CBD

Reference: VG/135791

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria (RBGV) is a world-renowned institution comprising two exquisite sites: the heritage-listed Melbourne Gardens and the contemporary native garden in Cranbourne. While RBGV's gardens are celebrated for their natural beauty, the organisation also plays a pivotal role in leading global plant science and conservation research. Through its commitment to excellence in horticulture, conservation, research, and public engagement, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria continues to be a much loved institution that inspires appreciation and understanding of the natural world.

As a result of an internal review to set up RBGV for success into the future, an Executive Director Experience and Engagement has been created to lead and implement the visitor engagement, educational programming and visitor experience strategies. As a member of the executive team, this role will oversee the strategic development and delivery of programs, activities and experiences in several key areas including Tourism, Events, Learning and Community Engagement, Visitor Experience and Volunteers. With four direct reports, the Executive Director Experience and Engagement will be critical in shaping the strategy and operations of these key areas, enhancing the overall visitor experience and contributing to the Gardens' impact across the community and beyond.

Key responsibilities of the role will include:

• Contribute to establishing corporate targets, strategic priorities and plans to achieve the organisation's purpose.
• Oversee the design and delivery of creative tourism initiatives to position both sites as key destinations whilst generating revenue
• Be responsible for the development and delivery of innovative learning programs and community engagement initiatives, ensuring the Gardens are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to diverse community needs.
• Lead the strategy for major public events, ensuring that they align with RBGV's purpose and values while providing enriching and memorable experiences for visitors and also providing financial return to the organisation.
• Foster partnerships with external organisations, local communities, and educational institutions to broaden the Gardens' reach and impact in delivering educational and cultural programs
• Work with internal teams to assess and enhance the quality of visitor experiences, identifying areas for improvement and innovation to continually elevate the Gardens' public offerings.

As the ideal candidate, you will be an experienced executive with a proven track record of establishing new external relationships in order to form strategic partnerships and meaningful opportunities. You will also have experience in developing and delivering community engagement, programming and event strategies within cultural, educational or scientific organisations, including with a focus on strategic revenue generation.

This is a unique opportunity to join an iconic organisation and be part of its growth journey.

For a confidential discussion please contact Michelle Collins on or apply using the link below attaching your resume along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and highlighting how you meet the key selection criteria. Please ensure CV and Cover Letter are uploaded as one file.

Applications close: Wednesday 2nd April at 5pm.

RBGV is committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Our organisation is a proudly child safe organisation and committed to protecting children and young people from harm. Shortlisted applicants will be required to complete the necessary pre-employment checks, including psychometric testing and are subject to the requirements of the VPS Executive Pre-employment Screening Policy.

Applications close Wednesday 2 April 2025 at 11.59PM

Posted 05 March 2025