Head Gardener - Live Out - EC5315

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced and qualified Head Gardener to lead a small team on a stunning private estate in Hampshire.  This opening would suit a talented hands-on plants person with the desire to play a key role in the management and on-going development of a horticulturally diverse garden.

The 30-acre estate comprises parkland and an immaculate formal garden, designed by Anouska Hempel.  The formal garden comprises a kitchen garden, pollarded trees, topiary yew, box hedging, herbaceous borders, roses and cut flowers, climbing plants, and a greenhouse used for propagation.  The gardens are not open to the public as a matter of routine though events are held at the estate at times, prior to which the garden team may be required to work extended hours.

The incoming Head Gardener will help manage the intricate and structured garden with great attention to detail, such that current standards are maintained, and future plans realised.  The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with a renowned garden designer, and with the owners directly, so applicants with a keen eye for plant use and design are encouraged to apply. 

It is essential that applicants have academic horticultural qualifications (preferably at Level 3 or higher), at least 5 years’ experience as Head Gardener on a private estate(s), excellent plant knowledge, competency in the operation of and basic maintenance of garden machinery, good physical fitness and the ability to manage staff in a constructive and diplomatic manner.  Applicants must also be well versed in plant propagation and glasshouse work, training and managing garden staff, and the planning and strict management of garden budgets and associated expenditure.  The Head Gardener must be able to negotiate with, organise and manage approved external contractors and suppliers when necessary.  Some weekend work may be required on a rotational basis, during the summer months, and when preparing for special events.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and talented Head Gardener to play a key hands-on role in the management of a stunning private garden in a beautiful part of the country.

If this Head Gardener vacancy is of interest, please apply or contact Sara Yassin on 01233 733510 or info@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk.

SALARY: £40,000 DOE

LOCATION: Old Alresford, Hampshire

JOB No: EC5315

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.