Head Gardener

Job Description

Summary Are you a motivational leader Would you like the opportunity to lead all aspects of the maintenance of a Nationally significant gardenWere looking for a Head Gardener to join us here at Scotney Castle. Your role will be all about the conservation, preservation, day to day management and maintenance of one of the finest examples of a picturesque gardens in the country.First interviews: 28 FebruarySecond interviews: 6 MarchWere holding an open day on Saturday, 4 February. Come and find out more, over coffee and cake with our General Manager, John Musgrave and current Head Gardener, Natan Cointet. Well arrange free entry for you and your family for the day,so you can spend time discovering the beautiful property afterwards.Please email Business Support .uk to book a timeslot. If you cant make the day, please feel free to get in touch with us and arrange a chat by phone or online.JED3001 What its like to work here Working as an integral part of the Property Leadership Team, youll influence and support the development of new plans and projects.Reporting directly to the General Manager (and deputising for them on occasion), youll have Duty Management responsibilities one day a week and one weekend in three. Click here for more information about this location What youll be doing Youll be responsible for the day-to-day management of the garden staff and volunteers, leading your team to deliver a wide range of practical horticultural tasks, making sure that Scotney Castle is maintained and presented consistently and well.Youll develop, enhance and conserve the garden and ensure the smooth and professional delivery of projects. Youll prioritise and allocate tasks appropriately and within budget, while always thinking of the bigger picture and the vision for the garden.Youll conserve and build on the restoration work and planning that has already been done, while exploring new ways to enhance the garden and share both the historic and living story of our garden with our visitors. Ensuring a high quality, engaging, andenjoyable visitor experience will be at the heart of all you do.To learn more about the role, please see the candidate pack, attached to this advert. Who were looking for Scotney is a lively and exciting place to work, where there is always something going on. Were looking for someone with energy, passion and drive. If youre up to the challenge, then we want to hear from you!Youll have:

• Experience of managing teams of gardeners and volunteers
• A love for sharing your knowledge and experience with volunteers, staff and visitors
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• RHS Level 3 (or equivalent) as well as practical gardening/horticulture experience
• An excellent understanding of horticultural techniques and plant identification
• Experience and relevant tickets for using garden machinery
• An understanding of Health & Safety and sustainable garden practices

The package The National Trust has the motto For everyone, for ever at its heart. Were working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. Its important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audienceswe serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say were for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Tax free childcare scheme

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• Perks at work discounts i.e. gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most locations

• Independent financial advice

Click here to find out moreabout the benefits we offer to support you.