Head Gardener
An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Gardener to oversee the transformation of a breathtaking 30-acre historic estate in Somerset. Rich in history and charm, the estate features a Grade I listed building, Grade II ancillary structures, and extensive Grade II listed parks and gardens. This role presents a unique and exciting challenge for a passionate horticulturist to make a profound impact, playing an instrumental role in restoring and enhancing the estate’s extraordinary landscape.
The estate boasts an array of picturesque features, including a beautifully enclosed walled garden, tiered lawns, a flourishing orchard, and expansive parklands. The Head Gardener will take on the responsibility of maintaining and developing these spaces, cultivating a variety of vegetables and fruits, managing complex irrigation systems, monitoring plant health, and implementing effective pest and weed control measures. Beyond hands-on gardening, they will oversee budgets, manage staff, and coordinate volunteers, ensuring the gardens consistently meet the highest horticultural standards.
Currently undergoing an extensive restoration, the estate is on a journey to reclaim its grandeur. Once the restoration is complete, the gardens will open to the public on select occasions, providing an opportunity to showcase their beauty and historic significance. The Head Gardener will play a central role in preparing the grounds for these events, leading garden tours, organising public open days, and maintaining key elements such as garden buildings, tools, and water features.
The ideal candidate will hold a recognised horticultural qualification, such as NVQ Level 3 or RHS Level 2 or 3, and possess at least three years of relevant experience, ideally gained on a private estate. Practical experience with tractors and attachments is desirable, along with holding PA1/PA6 spraying certificates. Additional qualifications in brush cutting/clearing saw operation and chainsaw maintenance and crosscutting would also be beneficial.
Candidates must demonstrate exceptional leadership, organisational, and communication skills, alongside practical expertise in operating and maintaining garden machinery. A strong understanding of health and safety regulations is crucial, as is understanding of confidentially when working within a private family estate.
This full-time position, requires the candidate to be flexible on working hours that adapt to seasonal demands, ensuring the gardens are maintained effectively year-round.
This is a rare and rewarding opportunity for a skilled and passionate horticulturist to contribute to the transformation and ongoing legacy of a remarkable estate.
SALARY: Up to £40,000 (Live In option is available if required)
LOCATION: Somerset
JOB No: EC65057
If this Head Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Jay Rimell on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk
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Thank you for the interest you have shown in this Head Gardener vacancy. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this vacancy has been unsuccessful.
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