Head Gardener

Head Gardener – Significant Private Estate

Location - Ascot, SL5

Overview

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced and dedicated Head Gardener at an historic 300-acre private estate in Ascot, Berkshire. This position would suit a self-motivated and passionate horticulturalist who is looking for a challenging and rewarding role within a highly professional estate team.

Working under the overall direction of the Estate Manager, the successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing garden maintenance, project management, garden administration and providing clear direction and guidance to a team of 13 gardeners on a day-to-day basis.

The estate consists of 60 acres of formal gardens, which includes a potager, rose garden, grass tennis courts, outdoor swimming pool, large Victorian glasshouse and cutting garden. There is a significant plant collection, therefore the new Head Gardener will need to have a strong plant vocabulary. In addition, the estate also includes a large woodland, horse paddocks, wildflower meadow and lakes. You will also be responsible for the management of the principal’s townhouse garden in Belgravia, London.

The ideal candidate will have proven staff management experience, comprehensive horticultural knowledge and strong communication skills. The estate has an excellent staff retention record and rewards hardworking and committed individuals.

The estate is continually evolving and there are several projects planned for 2025, including a woodland regeneration project in collaboration with landscape architect, Tom Stuart-Smith.

Job Description

• Full oversight of garden improvements and seasonal maintenance
• Consultation with external partners and specialist consultants
• Staff management – weekly team rotas/meetings, staff training and team supervision
•  Development of the annual garden budget in consultation with the estate accounts team
•  Research and procurement of plants and materials for all areas of the estate
• Project planning and implementation in consultation with the Estate Manager
• Coordination with the household team on internal floral displays and plant maintenance
• Oversight of H&S management and best practices coordination with the estate team
• Responsible for providing client briefings and garden updates

Requirements

• 7-10 years’ experience within a senior position at a private estate or public garden
• Comprehensive plant knowledge and woodland management experience
• Relevant horticultural qualifications and experience
• Operational knowledge and experience of garden machinery
• Intermediate level IT skills

Salary    £50,000 - per annum (may be negotiable for an outstanding candidate) plus discretionary bonus.  

               Accommodation provided.