Senior Director, Horticulture

The Senior Director, Horticulture is primarily responsible for providing strategic direction and technical expertise for the successful operation of the Horticulture Department in order to provide optimum tree and ornamental quality standards on the golf course and throughout the Augusta National campus. The Senior Director, Horticulture also participates in the visionary planning and execution of campus-wide improvement projects. This position is part of the Augusta National Leadership Team and operates under the direction of the Chief Tournament and Golf Development Officer. In addition, this role works closely with the Club’s Chairman and Executive Director. Like all positions at Augusta National, the Senior Director, Horticulture must always maintain the confidentiality of all Club business.

Job Responsibilities

• Accountable for the results of the Horticulture Department, which consists of the Horticulture Operations, Plant Healthcare, Landscape Development and Logistics Teams.

• Develops, plans, coordinates and directs horticulture operations, departmental programs and project work to ensure established standards are met and to ensure optimal grounds presentation conditions relative to weather conditions and seasonal activity. Fulfills established KPIs.

• Establishes and/or maintains documented departmental processes and procedures that guide the Horticulture Department and align with the Club’s Mission and Core Values.

• In coordination with the Chief Tournament and Golf Development Officer, and in conjunction with Human Resources policy and procedure, is accountable for hiring, performance management and development of direct reports and team.

• Provides a safe work environment that is in compliance with Federal, State and Club regulations.  Ensures the safety of department personnel by communicating changing weather conditions in accordance with established procedures.

• Excels in creating and managing budgets; is an exceptional financial steward of Augusta National’s resources. Accountable for forecast and budget management for the department, as well as effective allocation of department payroll. 

• Coordinates correlation of technical programs including arboriculture, soil and plant nutrition, plant pathology and physiology and horticulture best practices.

• Develops and coordinates a complete record documentation system for department operations, programs and activity.  Prepares and submits reports as required.

• Oversees horticulture activities and scheduling and effectively communicates with department leadership to ensure activities minimally interfere with membership play.

• Supports the horticultural requirements of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals and the Masters Tournament.

• Works closely with several Chairmen of Member Committees during the Masters Tournament, especially the Gallery Committee.

• Establishes and maintains key stakeholder relationships, both at Augusta National and throughout the industry. Promotes growth and development through educational collaboration.

• Acts as a liaison between Horticulture and all other Club departments, especially Agronomy, Campus Development, Tournament Headquarters, Facilities & Engineering, Club & Hospitality, Business Affairs, etc.  Serves as the Club’s subject matter expert on all matters related to horticulture. 

• Maintains 5- and 10-year plans for equipment, construction and renovation projects that support the Club’s strategic plan.

• Coordinates department staff and outside contractors for the completion of approved golf course projects. 

• Provides oversight, in conjunction with department leadership, for the pesticide program.

• Oversees the scheduling and routing of department staff and equipment for daily operations.  Coordinates and conducts inspections to ensure work quality and Club standards are met. 

• Works with the design team on landscape design through collaboration and implementation. Coordinates all landscape installations.

• Remains updated on technological advances and legal updates within the horticulture industry.  Prepares staff for relevant changes.

• Attends seminars and workshops for continued professional growth and development.

• Supports internal training programs emphasizing leadership development.

• Embraces and effectively models Augusta National’s Core Values; studies and activates the Club’s customs and traditions. 

• Performs other duties deemed by management to be an integral part of the job.

Physical Demands

• Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties.

• Constantly required to use arms, hands and fingers to handle or lift items up to 50 pounds and/or drive a golf cart, full-sized vehicle and other machinery necessary to conduct work. 

• Constantly required to stand and walk, climb, or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, reach with hands and arms.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Qualifications:

Skills/Knowledge/Attributes:

• Extensive knowledge of landscape design, horticulture and general business management practices.

• Effective communication skills (written and verbal).

Relative Experience/Education:

• Minimum 10+ years of experience as a Horticulturist, especially at a golf club or campus setting with exacting standards of excellence.

• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience.

• Landscaping and construction experience.

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Horticulture, Agronomy or related field from an accredited program.

Required License(s):

• Possesses a valid Georgia Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s license.

• Possesses a valid driver’s license and/or successfully completes the internal motor vehicle training course.

Projected Work Schedule:

Normal work hours are 6:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Work Authorization & Sponsorship

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.