Head of Ornamental, and Head of Woodland and Estate (two roles)

The Heath House - Head of Ornamental.

The Heath House - Head of Woodland and Estate.

The Heath House is a private family estate with extensive gardens and woodlands. As custodians, we are in the early stages of planning a restoration and reimagining project aimed at preserving the estate's buildings and landscape. Our vision for the estate includes sustainable garden management, biodiversity enhancement, and habitat conservation. We are adding two senior appointments to our brilliant team to collaborate with owners, colleagues, horticultural consultant, and landscape architect in revitalising the gardens of Heath House Estate.

The Ornamental role is focused on the renovation of mature planting beds and the delivery of landscape plans that align with our long-term development goals. The Woodland and Estate role will oversee the conservation, improvement, and future management of the woodland, meadow, and grassland areas of the Heath House Estate, in alignment with our long-term development plans.

Both roles are hands-on which demand active participation in daily operations and strategic oversight of long-term projects.

Generic skills and Experience:

• Proven leadership experience, particularly in managing contractors and teams.
• Degree or diploma in horticulture with a specialization in ornamental management, or equivalent experience/ Degree or diploma in ecology, environmental science, or a related field, with specialization in conservation or woodland management, or equivalent significant experience.
• Minimum of five years' experience in: ornamental management, with strong practical knowledge of shrub, topiary, herbaceous, and perennial care / management, with strong practical experience in garden / woodland regeneration projects and invasive species management and knowledge of tree care, including conducting surveys and inspections.
• At least two years of team management experience.
• Teaching or mentoring experience, with a passion for inspiring others in ornamental horticulture careers / woodland and conservation careers.
• Strong commitment to inclusive and environmentally responsible garden management.
• Relevant machinery certifications, including chainsaw certification (e.g., chainsaw maintenance, tree felling, tractor operation), and PA1, PA6a, and PA6aw certifications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Valid UK driver’s license.

Head of Ornamental Specific responsibilities include:

• Ornamental Garden Management: Work closely with the appointed Landscape Architect and horticultural consultant to develop and implement a comprehensive Ornamental Garden Plan. Over the next two to three years, you will execute seasonal tasks such as plant identification, dividing perennials, rejuvenation pruning, weed control, and restoring overgrown garden features, including paths, stonework, and seating areas.
• Project Development: Play a pivotal role in expanding the ornamental gardens and plant collections as part of a larger planting initiative. Initially, you will manage a small team of contract horticulture specialists, with the opportunity to grow and lead a larger team as the project progresses.
• Invasive Species Control: Lead the management of invasive species within the ornamental gardens, ensuring all practices adhere to the Garden Management Plan and promote long-term sustainability.
• Health & Safety: Maintain strict compliance with health and safety regulations, prioritizing both safety and ecological responsibility in all ornamental management tasks.

Head of Woodland & Estate Specific responsibilities include:

• Woodland Management: Help develop and implement a comprehensive Woodland Management Plan, working with an appointed forestry consultant to improve habitats and boost biodiversity. You'll focus on 'light-touch' management that enhances ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water cycling, nutrient regulation, and erosion control.
• Project Development: Play a key role in the expansion of the estate’s tree collection and arboreta as part of a broader planting program. You’ll initially work with a small team of contract arborists and woodland specialists, eventually building an appropriate team as the project progresses.
• Invasive Species Control: Lead efforts to manage invasive species across the estate, ensuring sustainable practices that align with the Woodland Management Plan.
• Health & Safety: Ensure all work complies with H&S regulations, prioritizing safety and ecological responsibility in every aspect of woodland and estate management.

We are also looking to recruit a Productive (kitchen) gardener. Under the direct supervision of the Productive Lead, the Productive (Kitchen) Gardener is responsible for cultivating high-quality, edible produce in line with the estate’s food vision, while maintaining an aesthetically appealing garden. The role involves supporting daily care, cultivation, and maintenance of the Walled Garden, as well as contributing to various garden improvement projects (Orchard and future productive garden developments). The ideal candidate will have solid experience in growing fruits and vegetables, along with the ability to lead or collaborate effectively within a team. The Productive Kitchen Gardener will receive a competitive remuneration package up to £27,000

Renumeration and benefits:

The Head of Ornamental; and Head of Woodland and Estate roles will receive a highly competitive salary circa £34,000 - £39,500 per annum, negotiable for shortlisted candidates.

Benefits:

• Professional membership and reasonable costs for professional development and training covered. Workplace pension scheme available. Normal hours - Flexible, 5 days out of 7 Annual Leave - 34 days p.a., including bank holidays Statutory Entitlements - All statutory entitlements, including SSP, workplace pension etc