Job
Executive Director
| Location | Lexington, KY 40507 |
| Date Posted | January 29, 2025 |
| Job ID | 12327 |
| Employment Type | Retained |
Scion Executive Search has been retained to conduct a search for the incoming Executive Director on behalf of Gatton Park on the Town Branch, a transformative green space project in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. This dynamic organization is dedicated to creating a vibrant, inclusive community hub that reflects the culture and spirit of Lexington while fostering connections and providing enriching experiences for all.
This full-time, permanent position is for immediate hire onsite in beautiful Lexington, Kentucky, at the heart of this exciting and impactful development.
ABOUT GATTON PARK ON THE TOWN BRANCH:
Gatton Park on the Town Branch is an upcoming 9-acre green space in downtown Lexington, Kentucky, set to transform a former parking area behind Rupp Arena into a vibrant community hub. Designed by the renowned firm Sasaki, the park aims to reflect the culture and spirit of Lexington, offering inclusive and dynamic spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds.
The project is a public-private partnership, with significant contributions from local philanthropists, including a $14.5 million donation from the Bill Gatton Foundation, after which the park is named.
Currently under construction, Gatton Park is scheduled to open in late summer 2025, with a Grand Opening celebration to mark its realization as a place of joy, connection, and community. The park is envisioned as Lexington’s “living room,” providing a beautiful and dynamic gathering space that fosters a sense of joy and belonging within the community.
ABOUT LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY:
Lexington, Kentucky, is a vibrant city in the heart of the Bluegrass region, celebrated as the Horse Capital of the World. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and Southern charm, with a thriving equestrian culture, renowned bourbon distilleries, and a bustling downtown filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
Surrounded by picturesque rolling hills and horse farms, Lexington boasts a welcoming and diverse community with a deep appreciation for its rich history and traditions. Highlights of the area include temperate seasons, the University of Kentucky’s dynamic campus, and access to countless outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking trails to scenic parks.
OVERVIEW:
This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, hands-on leader to serve as the inaugural Executive Director for Gatton Park on the Town Branch. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will lead the park’s operational management and day-to-day oversight, ensuring it runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced park, amphitheater, or facility leader with a passion for creating memorable, community-centered park experiences. With strong expertise in park operations, maintenance, and facility management, the Executive Director will oversee all aspects of park operations, from staffing and maintenance to programming and community outreach.
In addition to managing staff and operations, the Executive Director will work closely with the foundation’s Chief Executive Officer to implement the park’s vision and goals. The ability to manage large-scale public spaces, build effective teams, and engage with the community will be essential as the park becomes a focal point for residents and visitors alike. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a groundbreaking urban park and leave a lasting legacy on the community.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
This full-time, onsite Executive Director role offers an exciting opportunity to lead Gatton Park on the Town Branch, a unique urban park dedicated to creating vibrant, community-centered experiences. In addition to a competitive base salary of $145,000 to $160,000, relocation assistance, and other perks, you’ll receive exceptional benefits that include medical, dental, and life insurance, short- and long-term disability, unlimited PTO (paid time off) after completing 6 months of full-time employment, six weeks of paid parental leave, as well as a 401(k) plan with 5% employer contribution match. This is an opportunity and position that will inspire you daily!
Please address applications to:
Alexandra Martin, Executive Search Principal
Scion Executive Search
(888) 487-8850
Review of applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will begin immediately and continue on a confidential basis until an appointment is made.
ABOUT OUR FIRM:
Scion Executive Search is an award-wining retained executive search firm. Our track record and recruitment process have made us one of the top recruitment firms in the United States. Through innovative team building and recruitment solutions, Scion Executive Search seamlessly bridges the gap in interim and executive searches.
We are proud to be part of the Forbes lists of the Best Recruitment Firms and the Best Executive Search Firms in America. Additionally, Scion has been recognized as a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing firm as well as a top recruitment firm by The Business Times. Additional information about our firm and our practices can be found online.
Scion Executive Search is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, or any other protected class. We are committed to the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and are dedicated to making employment decisions based on merit and value, for ourselves, our client companies, and the candidates we represent.
For opportunities located in a region that has enacted fair chance, arrest, or conviction-based employment ordinances, Scion Executive Search proactively follows the enacted guidance and considers for employment all qualified applications with arrest and conviction records. We engage in socially conscious business practices and believe that diverse, equitable, inclusive, and non-biased talent and recruitment processes are foundational to the success of Scion as well as every client organization with whom we partner.
This full-time, permanent position is for immediate hire onsite in beautiful Lexington, Kentucky, at the heart of this exciting and impactful development.
ABOUT GATTON PARK ON THE TOWN BRANCH:
Gatton Park on the Town Branch is an upcoming 9-acre green space in downtown Lexington, Kentucky, set to transform a former parking area behind Rupp Arena into a vibrant community hub. Designed by the renowned firm Sasaki, the park aims to reflect the culture and spirit of Lexington, offering inclusive and dynamic spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds.
The project is a public-private partnership, with significant contributions from local philanthropists, including a $14.5 million donation from the Bill Gatton Foundation, after which the park is named.
Currently under construction, Gatton Park is scheduled to open in late summer 2025, with a Grand Opening celebration to mark its realization as a place of joy, connection, and community. The park is envisioned as Lexington’s “living room,” providing a beautiful and dynamic gathering space that fosters a sense of joy and belonging within the community.
ABOUT LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY:
Lexington, Kentucky, is a vibrant city in the heart of the Bluegrass region, celebrated as the Horse Capital of the World. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and Southern charm, with a thriving equestrian culture, renowned bourbon distilleries, and a bustling downtown filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
Surrounded by picturesque rolling hills and horse farms, Lexington boasts a welcoming and diverse community with a deep appreciation for its rich history and traditions. Highlights of the area include temperate seasons, the University of Kentucky’s dynamic campus, and access to countless outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking trails to scenic parks.
OVERVIEW:
This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, hands-on leader to serve as the inaugural Executive Director for Gatton Park on the Town Branch. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will lead the park’s operational management and day-to-day oversight, ensuring it runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced park, amphitheater, or facility leader with a passion for creating memorable, community-centered park experiences. With strong expertise in park operations, maintenance, and facility management, the Executive Director will oversee all aspects of park operations, from staffing and maintenance to programming and community outreach.
In addition to managing staff and operations, the Executive Director will work closely with the foundation’s Chief Executive Officer to implement the park’s vision and goals. The ability to manage large-scale public spaces, build effective teams, and engage with the community will be essential as the park becomes a focal point for residents and visitors alike. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a groundbreaking urban park and leave a lasting legacy on the community.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Operational Leadership: Oversee the day-to-day management of the park, ensuring smooth operations, safety, and the maintenance of facilities and infrastructure. This includes supervising the operational team and coordinating the work of contractors, vendors, and service providers.
- Program Development & Oversight: Lead the creation, development, and implementation of park programs and events that enhance community engagement and park usage. Ensure all programs are consistent with the park’s mission and values while maximizing the park’s potential as a community resource.
- Staff & Team Management: Supervise a team of directors, including the Director of Operations and Planning, Director of Events & Partnerships, and Director of Programming and Engagement. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that encourages professional growth and development.
- Financial Management: Work with the foundation’s CEO and Board of Directors to manage the park’s budget, monitor expenditures, and ensure financial health. Oversee resource allocation, including capital projects, operating costs, and financial sustainability efforts.
- Facilities & Maintenance Oversight: Ensure all park facilities are properly maintained, operate efficiently, and meet visitors’ needs. Develop a maintenance schedule and lead efforts to enhance park facilities and infrastructure.
- Stakeholder Relations & Community Partnerships: Foster strong relationships with local businesses, community organizations, government agencies, and park visitors. Act as a visible and approachable representative of the park, ensuring it remains a welcoming and valuable resource for all community members.
- Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship: Lead efforts to maintain the park’s environmental sustainability, integrating green practices into the park’s operations and advocating for conservation and environmental education.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Ensure Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are integral to all aspects of the park’s operations, including planning, program development, and external partnerships. Foster a culture of inclusivity and ensure that DEI goals are central to the park’s mission and day-to-day activities.
- Board & Stakeholder Reporting: Provide regular reports to the Board of Directors on park operations, program development, financial status, and other key performance indicators. Engage with the Board on strategy development and long-term goals.
- Strategic Plan Execution: In collaboration with Gatton Park Conservancy, implement long-term strategic plans that align with the park’s mission and vision.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree is preferred; however, equivalent experience in a related field will be accepted.
- 10+ years of senior executive experience within park operations, facility management, hospitality, or community-based organizations.
- 3 - 5 years of demonstrated success managing diverse teams and fostering a collaborative, high-performing work culture.
- Strong understanding of operational excellence, including visitor experience, safety, and facilities management.
- Demonstrated commitment to incorporating DEI practices and values into all facets of work and life.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Experience with budget management, financial planning, and vendor/contractor oversight.
- Commitment to Gatton Park’s mission of community-driven excellence.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
This full-time, onsite Executive Director role offers an exciting opportunity to lead Gatton Park on the Town Branch, a unique urban park dedicated to creating vibrant, community-centered experiences. In addition to a competitive base salary of $145,000 to $160,000, relocation assistance, and other perks, you’ll receive exceptional benefits that include medical, dental, and life insurance, short- and long-term disability, unlimited PTO (paid time off) after completing 6 months of full-time employment, six weeks of paid parental leave, as well as a 401(k) plan with 5% employer contribution match. This is an opportunity and position that will inspire you daily!
APPLICATIONS AND NOMINATIONS:
Gatton Park on the Town Branch has retained the services of Scion Executive Search, a national executive search firm specializing in mission-driven organization recruitment, to assist in conducting this important search. For immediate consideration, please apply with your resume and cover letter, formatted in Microsoft Word, via https://www.scionstaffing.com/job/12327.Please address applications to:
Alexandra Martin, Executive Search Principal
Scion Executive Search
(888) 487-8850
Review of applications, nominations, and expressions of interest will begin immediately and continue on a confidential basis until an appointment is made.
ABOUT OUR FIRM:
Scion Executive Search is an award-wining retained executive search firm. Our track record and recruitment process have made us one of the top recruitment firms in the United States. Through innovative team building and recruitment solutions, Scion Executive Search seamlessly bridges the gap in interim and executive searches.
We are proud to be part of the Forbes lists of the Best Recruitment Firms and the Best Executive Search Firms in America. Additionally, Scion has been recognized as a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing firm as well as a top recruitment firm by The Business Times. Additional information about our firm and our practices can be found online.
Scion Executive Search is an equal opportunity employer and service provider and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, or any other protected class. We are committed to the principles of Equal Opportunity Employment and are dedicated to making employment decisions based on merit and value, for ourselves, our client companies, and the candidates we represent.
For opportunities located in a region that has enacted fair chance, arrest, or conviction-based employment ordinances, Scion Executive Search proactively follows the enacted guidance and considers for employment all qualified applications with arrest and conviction records. We engage in socially conscious business practices and believe that diverse, equitable, inclusive, and non-biased talent and recruitment processes are foundational to the success of Scion as well as every client organization with whom we partner.
