Head Gardener (Live out) - EC5308

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced and hands-on Senior/Head Gardener on a beautiful estate in Stafford.  This position would suit a knowledgeable, flexible and hardworking gardener with the desire to play a key role in the development and hands-on management of a diverse NGS garden.  The client is happy to accept applications from candidates looking to take a step up in their gardening career if their background clearly demonstrates existing knowledge and experience in the areas outlined within this job brief.  The successful candidate will initially work as a Sole Gardener, with the intention of recruiting additional resources once the required roles are determined.

The impressive 7-acre garden consists of several formal ‘rooms’ of different styles plus a 5-acre field/paddock, set within open farmland in rural Stafford.    A wildlife pool and stream deliver a dynamic element to the garden, with surrounding woodland providing contrast.  A greenhouse and a new vegetable garden allow plant propagation and the production of food for the estate, with mixed/herbaceous borders surrounded by extensive box and yew hedging.  Areas of topiary are managed by external contractors though applicants should be well-versed in the process in order to support this work and maintain quality.

The garden is open to the public through the NGS and other private open days, highlighting the requirement for the garden to be maintained to exceptionally high standards at all times.  In addition to the visitor openings, a number of other public functions are hosted during the year.  The owners also intend to host wedding receptions and other private functions.  The lure of the gardens is a primary factor in the number of appointments made on the estate, so the incoming Head Gardener must possess the desire to see improvement on an on-going basis by way of efficient management and commitment to the tasks at hand. Applicants must be willing to undertake the full range of gardening tasks from weeding and leaf-blowing, up to the more horticulturally-demanding tasks required of a Head Gardener.  There is scope for further development throughout the garden and as such, applicants with experience in garden design are encouraged to apply.

The successful candidate will initially work as a Sole Gardener and their assistance will be required with respect to the recruitment off additional resources which may include the recruitment of 1-2 apprentices in conjunction with the local agricultural college.  The Head Gardener will be responsible for these staff and other sub-contractors.  It is essential, therefore, that applicants are willing and able to manage all aspects of the gardens, including that of basic garden maintenance on a daily basis.

Typical duties will include, but will not be limited to; planting, pruning, bed and border development and maintenance, mowing and lawn care, kitchen gardening, plant propagation and caring for sculpture, water features and the greenhouse.  Other duties include overseeing basic swimming pool maintenance and associated contractors, ensuring security of the house and outbuildings with the occasional basic care of friendly domestic animals. The Head Gardener will also be expected to support preparation for functions and events, which will require weekend work at times.  Some minor property maintenance may be required on an emergency basis, so applicants with good DIY skills are welcome to apply, though the primary focus of the role remains on garden improvement and hands-on management.  Applicants should also be confident and keen to deliver interesting and informative garden tours when required, for which good plant knowledge will be required.  Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential as the Head Gardener will also be involved in promoting the garden via various media channels. 

Applicants must possess excellent horticultural knowledge, physical fitness, a strong work ethic, a positive, fun character and genuine enthusiasm for their profession.  Candidates must have demonstrable experience of garden management on private estates at Sole, Senior and/or Head level, and should be qualified to RHS Level 2 or 3, or equivalent/above.  The ability to confidently operate and provide basic maintenance to garden machinery is required.  Spray and chainsaw certification would be ideal, though training may be provided for candidates that excel in other areas.  Excellent time management skills are essential, as is the ability to plan, organise and manage the garden care calendar.

Working hours will be 08.30 - 17.00 Monday to Friday with weekend working to support garden openings.  Holiday entitlement includes 20 days plus Bank Holidays (28 days in total), plus time off in lieu for garden openings and overtime.

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

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.