Washington, DC/DMV Area
Washington , D.C.
Chicago based organization, remote environment
Posted: 20-Feb-25
Location: Raleigh, NC
Type: Full Time
Categories:
Salary Details:
Required Education:
Additional Information:
This position is a hybrid role requiring two days in the office at 968 Trinity Road Raleigh, NC 27607.
POSITION OVERVIEW
NCNLA’s Director of Education plays a vital role in leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs that align with the needs of our members. In this capacity, this role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of educational programming, certification initiatives, licensing board liaison activities, scholarships, and reporting. Through their expertise and dedication, they set out to enhance the professional development opportunities for NCNLA members and the broader industry.
SUPERVISION REQUIRED
This position requires minimal supervision and generally functions on an independent basis within the confines of current policies, budgets and strategic initiatives. Efforts are coordinated with the Executive Vice President as necessary from time to time.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position supervises part-time and/or temporary staff during high workload periods, e.g., Green & Growin’ each year.
POSITION RELATIONSHIPS
Governance: Provide updates at meetings of the NCNLA Board of Directors. Serve as staff lead to the Conference Committee, Certified Plant Professional (CPP) Committee, Scholarship Committee and other committees as determined by the board of directors.
External: Significant interaction with vendors and partner organizations, including community colleges, universities and Cooperative Extension agents.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Educational and Event Programming
- Develops and implements educational programs that align with the needs of NCNLA members, including Green & Growin’ and the Carolina Nursery Summit.
- Plans, organizes, and executes various educational events, including Green & Growin' education webinars.
- Negotiates and executes contracts with vendors, venues, and service providers.
- Oversee all event logistics, from concept to execution, including venue selection, catering, audiovisual setup, and transportation.
- Designs and manages a comprehensive portfolio of educational programs, researching and securing appropriate speakers while tracking program success.
- Assesses industry trends and competing educational products to identify new opportunities and potential partnerships.
- Evaluates program effectiveness and recommends improvements based on participant feedback and industry needs.
- Ensures compliance with all relevant regulations and industry standards.
Certification Management
- Oversee the Certified Plant Professional (CPP) Program, leading the CPP Committee to update curriculum, associated task forces, and vet exam questions.
- Develops and manages a certification program targeted to North Carolina high school students; Future Plant Professional program.
- Identifies and develops future certification programs to address industry needs.
Licensing Board Liaison
- Coordinates with state and national licensing boards to secure approval for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and reports licensees who earn educational credits through NCNLA programs.
- Maintains strong relationships with industry experts, state boards, and external organizations to ensure content relevance and compliance.
- Serves as the primary point of contact for all CEU inquiries.
Scholarships
- Oversee the NCNLA scholarship program, ensuring opportunities align with industry and educational objectives.
Reporting
- Prepares and presents reports for the Executive Vice President and the NCNLA Board of Directors.
- Regularly updates the Board of Directors on program performance and key educational initiatives.
- Design accurate records of events and program participation, feedback, and financial performance.
- Primary point of contact for all CEU inquiries.
Collaboration and Marketing
- Assist the Director of Marketing & Communications to develop marketing strategies for certification programs and educational initiatives.
- Assist the Director of Marketing & Communications with editorial proofing.
- Assist in the production of marketing materials for Green & Growin’ and sponsorship opportunities related to Education.
- Builds and enhances relationships with partners and external organizations to further NCNLA’s educational mission.
- Assists the Association in promoting NCNLA membership via educational programs.
Budgeting & Financial Oversight
- Develops and manages budgets for educational programs and events, ensuring cost-effectiveness.
- Monitors program revenues and expenses to ensure financial sustainability.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Education, Adult & Continuing Professional Education, Business Administration, or a related field.
Skills:
Ability to manage and lead the successful delivery of events along with education programs and services. Exceptional verbal and written communications skills. Able to exercise independent judgement and discretion. Exceptional customer service skills. Strong project management skills with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines. Self-motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team. Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to work with volunteer leaders, members, venue personnel and other employees. Comfortable working in a continuously evolving work environment where change is encouraged, and innovation is fostered. Proficiency in event management software and web-based delivery systems.
Experience with YourMembership or a similar platform is preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of 5 years of experience in educational planning, program development, certification oversight, project management, or a similar role, preferably within a professional association or non-profit organization.