We have an exciting opportunity for a Garden and Countryside manager to lead our team looking after 745 acres of in hand woodland and parkland at Chartwell including two nationally significant gardens, Chartwell and Emmetts Garden and little Quebec House Garden. This role offers the option of accommodation if desired. 

If you like the sound of this role, we’re holding an informal open day on 9th September. You’ll be able to meet some of our team, explore the park, view the accommodation and learn more about this broad and exciting role. If you have questions about the position, this is an opportunity to find out more about what it's like to work here!

To book onto the open day or if you have any questions please send an email to chelsea.pettitt@nationaltrust.org.uk

With two of the most beautiful gardens in the country, and 390,000 visitors coming to see them each year, this is a high-profile role for an accomplished manager to develop. Being close to London we receive millions of visitors to the West Kent Countryside and as the gardens have just undergone significant restorations programmes, a high level of presentation are now the norm for our visitors.

As the lead for all things Garden and Outdoors related at the Chartwell portfolio of properties, you will be responsible for ensuring the gardens are managed, conserved and developed in keeping with their historical, horticultural and aesthetic spirit. 

You’ll take the lead on environmental policies and safety compliance being met at the outdoor properties and ensure the on-going safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff.

In this role you will be a key member of the senior leadership team at the Chartwell Portfolio. You will enable your team to perform at the highest level to deliver horticultural excellence, exemplary management of land for high nature status and outstanding visitor experiences.

You have the opportunity to influence the programming and engagement within the garden, park and West Kent Countryside making the historic landscape relevant to new audiences and increase participation.

This role is a combination of strategy and planning, practical application, and people leadership. You will be able to help shape the future direction and aspirations for the gardens and countryside whilst collaborating with your peers, and inspiring your team of staff and volunteers, to strike the balance between conservation and access.

Building relationships and partnership working is critical to our success, having recently prepared a Conservation Management Plan to assist in our planning we will be working in partnership with our tenant farmers to deliver the action plan. 

This is an exciting opportunity to help make Chartwell and Emmetts Gardens a place where your team can increase their skills and achieve their potential and visitors can enjoy the beautiful surroundings for years to come. 

We're looking for someone who has:

• Significant horticultural experience and qualifications
• Experience of land and access management
• Strong leadership skills
• Excellent planning and people management skills
• Proven track record of managing budgets, finances, compliance and small projects
• Great communication skills
• Knowledge or understanding of conservation of historic landscapes
• Experience of organising garden and outdoor activities
• Experience of writing outdoor management plans
• A driving licence will be required to be able to travel around the portfolio