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Head of Ornamental Gardens

The Newt in Somerset. Head of Ornamental Gardens

The Newt in Somerset is a country estate reimagined. A home to relax, gardens to inspire and food to nourish. A place of wonderment, with Somerset at its heart. Our gardens are a vibrant and thriving attraction, animated throughout the seasons with special events, workshops and education programmes.

As Head of Ornamental Gardens, you will have a wide remit to develop and maintain the gardens. You will ensure the very highest standards of conservation, horticulture and visitor experience. A visionary, you will lead with passion and flair - motivating your team and setting exceptional quality standards.
Please also see www.thenewtinsomerset.com

Candidate Profile
You will be a credible collaborator, bringing enthusiasm and positivity to the role. Experience is very important - you will have a high level of horticultural knowledge from working on a similar large garden or across a portfolio. This experience will be supported by appropriate qualifications, and you will apply an artistic eye and understanding to the conservation of historic landscapes.

Exceptional communication skills will be required. You will manage a team and help organise garden activities to enhance the visitor experience. You will be confident with managing a budget for the garden.

Skills and Experience 

  •  An experienced leader
  •  Excellent knowledge of plants, their identification, propagation and cultivation.
  •  First-hand experience of managing a successful and high quality garden.
  •  Experience and proven ability in the management of a team of 8+ people.
  •  Precise and well organised.
  •  Hard-working and energetic, with excellent team skills and the ability to communicate at multiple levels.
  • Good IT skills for implementing efficient management systems and records are essential.
  •  Appropriate and relevant academic qualifications.
  •  An understanding of Health and Safety issues, including tree inspections.
  •  An eye for detail and desire to achieve high standards.
  •  Able to undertake work of a physical nature and demonstrate appropriate practical skills.
  •  Skilled in the care and operation of garden machinery, hand tools /equipment.
  •  Full and clean UK driving licence..

Excellent Benefits package including:
- Superb staff meals with home grown produce when on duty
- Performance Bonus
- 30 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
- 30% discount in the shops across the estate
- 30% discount at restaurants across the estate
- 30% discount on Babylonstoren wine and cyder
- 50% discount in the Spa
- Discounted hotel stays for staff
- Family pass to access the estate
- Entry passes for friends and family to access the estate when accompanied by staff member

Come and join a business that values and invests in its team, cares for its customers and the local community.

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