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Head Gardener

Employer
Marwood Hill Garden
Location
Barnstaple, Devon
Salary
Up to £30,000 per annum. Negotable depending on experience and qualifications
Closing date
13 Jul 2019

PROPERTY INFORMATION

Marwood Hill Garden is the vision and inspiration of the late Dr Jimmy Smart VMH. Covering an area of 20 acres and three lakes with National Collections of Astilbe and Tulbaghia and Partial collection of Iris Ensata. Our Walled Garden Plant Nursery and sales area retains the charm and individuality of an old-fashioned nursery. Many of the plants we sell are propagated from the same rare and unusual specimens admired in the garden. Our Garden tearoom is situated within the garden and overlooks the glorious views of the garden. The garden remains in private ownership by Dr Smart’s nephew Dr John Snowdon.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The role of the Head Gardener is essential for team leadership of the Gardens in the efficient day-to-day management and up-keep of the 20-acre gardens which is currently open to the public daily during March – October. The Head Gardener is supported by garden staff in ensuring continuing development of one of the best loved gardens in England, works with the property manager in managing the budget, liaises with the website manager in seeking awareness and publicity about the garden, and promotes its unique features through talks, at shows and by communicating with visitors and the public. The new Head Gardener will use their initiative and demonstrate a vision for Marwood's future; they will make a difference.   

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Managing and training of an enthusiastic team of gardeners and volunteers.
  • Excellent plant knowledge and horticultural skills
  • Designing seasonal planting schemes.
  • ICT and Budgeting skills
  • Operating garden machinery, such as mowers, ATV and trailers, strimmers, chain saws and maintenance of equipment.
  • Use and care of all hand tools
  • Spraying and chemical application and maintaining records where appropriate
  • Planting, maintenance and care of lawns, shrub borders and herbaceous borders.
  • Upkeep of paths
  • Assist in the production of plants etc. Including potting, pricking out and taking cuttings.
  • You will be expected to interact with our visitors on a daily basis, answering questions and giving advice.
  • Planning garden workshops, writing articles in garden journals/blogs, special garden tours for season ticket holders and other events to promote the garden to the media.
  • Some weekend duty, if required.
  • Updating the progress of work with the Owner/Property Manager
  • Maintenance of work areas in a clean and tidy condition.
  • Any other duties and responsibilities consistent with the role as may be reasonably requested from time to time.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

  • Demonstrate dedication and enthusiasm for horticulture
  • Trained as a professional gardener/horticulturalist with good level of practical experience. Possess a relevant horticulture qualification such as National Diploma, RHS Level 2 or 3, or NVQ and PA1/PA6 Spraying Certificate
  • Experience leading and supporting a small team of Gardeners
  • Ability to motivate and support the development of a team 
  • Competence with machinery/equipment use and maintenance as required for health and Safety compliance.
  • Ability to set and maintain high standards
  • Enthusiastic work ethic
  • Outgoing personality
  • Clear, professional and concise communicator
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of Health and Safety Policies
  • Excellent communication skills at all levels

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