Job Description

Sequence has been exclusively retained to lead the national search for a mission-driven Urban Forester / Program Leader to spearhead a groundbreaking tree and canopy initiative in Northwest Arkansas on behalf of Runway Group – the community investment platform founded by Steuart and Tom Walton .

This is currently the highest profile position of its kind in the Urban Forestry. A rare opportunity to step into a highly visible, well-resourced leadership role focused on building a living legacy through large-scale tree planting, ecosystem restoration, and environmental design – not just planting trees, but shaping the identity of a region.

About the Role

This newly created position is designed to serve as the strategic and operational lead of a long-term regional canopy initiative. Backed by significant seed funding ( initially several Million annually ), the initiative aims to expand and diversify the urban forest across Bentonville and surrounding communities. The position will reside within a specialized operations group within the Runway portfolio, and will work closely with philanthropic, civic, and development partners.

The Program Leader will be responsible for planning, designing, and executing multi-scale planting efforts – on trails, in neighborhoods, near key civic infrastructure, and in collaboration with municipalities and developers. The program is envisioned to grow into one of the nation’s leading urban canopy efforts , with long-term sustainability, regional biodiversity, and visual transformation as guiding goals.

Key Areas of Responsibility Include:

• Design and implement a regional tree planting and canopy growth strategy
• Identify priority planting sites in collaboration with public and private stakeholders
• Build sourcing and procurement pipelines, with emphasis on native and climate-resilient species
• Oversee budgets, resources, and grants in alignment with ecological and community goals
• Lead stakeholder engagement and serve as public liaison for advocacy and partnership development
• Shape the aesthetic and ecological character of projects, balancing science with vision
• Scale and structure program capacity (internal staff, consultants, vendors, etc.) as needed

Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a proven leader with a minimum of 10 years of experience in urban forestry, arboriculture, environmental planning, or landscape architecture . The right individual will have a demonstrated history of managing complex, community-focused planting projects , along with the presence, creativity, and drive to build something lasting.

A deep understanding of native species, climate zone adaptability, soil science, and urban ecology is essential, along with strong communication skills and the ability to interface with senior leadership, government officials, and nonprofit partners alike. Ideally someone comfortable working at all levels

Location & Culture

The position is based in Bentonville, Arkansas , a nationally recognized hub for outdoor living, cultural innovation, and sustainable development. Relocation support is available.

Runway and its affiliated organizations maintain a people-first culture , rooted in creativity, long-term thinking, and community investment. This role offers the opportunity to work directly with one of the most impactful and forward-looking philanthropic investment platforms in the U.S.

Compensation & Benefits

This is an excellent opportunity to join an innovative and progressive organization and grow a program as your own. A place where a motivated, self-starter interested in advancing their career and able/willing to work in a dynamic and creative environment that is dominated by realistic expectations would find a long-term home. A place where mission and impact matter.

Our client offers superior advancement opportunities and a very competitive compensation package, including base salary, incentives, and a full suite of medical, retirement, and wellness benefits.

Relocation assistance would also be available. Essentially, anything of reason can be structured for the right individual.

Apply here, through our corporate website at: or submit to:

Sequence Staffing

2008 Opportunity Drive, Suite 150

Roseville, CA 95678

Phone: 916-782-6900

Email: jobs@sequencestaffing.com

"Sequence: Where a handshake still means everything."

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