Head Gardener
A hands-on Head Gardener is sought after for a beautiful estate located in Piedimonte Etneo, Sicily. The property is based on the slopes of Mount Etna, 600m above sea level and the site is characterized by 360 degrees breath-taking views of the volcano on one side and the Mediterranean on the other.
The climate is more temperate than one would expect in Sicily given the altitude, which allows for a wide variety of species to be cultivated. The majority of the 20-hectare estate is dedicated to the organic commercial growing of a variety of fruits (lemons, peaches, cherries, plums, avocados), olives for olive oil and a small vineyard.
With 3 residential properties on site (1 currently being built), the head gardener will be responsible for the maintenance and development of the landscaped gardens around the properties as well as the kitchen garden totalling to approximately 3 hectares. He / She will work closely with the owners on the plans for several development projects including planting schemes and the input of an irrigation system. Someone with leadership and the imagination to design and maintain the gardens would suit the role well. He / She will then continue to work unsupervised for the implementation of the projects. Two agricultural farmers are currently working on site and would be available to support the head gardener on the landscaped gardens. The head gardener would be responsible for the staff management and training.
The ability to speak Italian (or at least to be able to communicate in Italian) is essential for the role. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years’ experience working in private gardens and will hold a level 2/3 horticultural qualification. He / She will have excellent plant knowledge and experience in maintaining and growing organic vegetables. They will also be responsible for the composting of waste on site. The ability to operate and maintain a range of garden machinery and good craft skills are also desirable for the role.
The property is easily accessible from Catania airport (about 40 minutes by car). The airport in Catania is well connected with direct flights to London. A cottage will be provided for the successful applicants together with access to a car. A full driving licence is required.
SALARY: £30-35k depending on experience
LOCATION: Sicily, Italy
JOB No: EC8035
If this Head Gardener vacancy is of interest please apply or contact Sara Yassin 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 everyone. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this Head Gardener vacancy will have been unsuccessful.
