Head Gardener
An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced and dedicated Head Gardener at an historic 300-acre private estate in Ascot, Berkshire. This position would suit a self-motivated and passionate horticulturalist who is looking for a challenging and rewarding role within a highly professional estate team.
The estate consists of 60 acres of formal gardens, which includes a potager, rose garden, grass tennis courts, outdoor swimming pool, large Victorian glasshouse and cutting garden. In addition, the estate also includes a large woodland, horse paddocks, wildflower meadow and lakes. You will also be responsible for the management of the principal’s townhouse garden in Belgravia, London.
Working under the direction of the Estate Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing garden maintenance, project management, garden administration and providing clear direction and guidance to a team of 13 gardeners on a day-to-day basis.
The Head Gardener will have full oversight of garden improvements and seasonal maintenance including the research and procurement of plants and materials for all areas of the estate, project planning and implementation in consultation with the Estate Manager, coordination with the household team on internal floral displays and plant maintenance and the development of the annual garden budget in consultation with the estate accounts team. Duties also include oversight of H&S management and best practices coordination with the estate team, staff management – weekly team rotas/meetings, staff training and team supervision and consultation with external partners and specialist consultants. The successful applicant will be responsible for providing client briefings and garden updates.
Applicants will ideally have 7-10 years’ experience within a senior position at a private estate or public garden. Comprehensive plant knowledge and woodland management experience is essential as well as relevant horticultural qualifications and experience. The successful applicant will have operational knowledge, experience of garden machinery and intermediate level IT skills. A full UK Driving Licence is a requirement.
The ideal candidate will have proven staff management experience, comprehensive horticultural knowledge and strong communication skills. The estate has an excellent staff retention record and rewards hardworking and committed individuals.
SALARY: up to £50,000 depending on experience (Live in)
LOCATION: Ascot, SL5
JOB No: EC63942
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 Head Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.
