Head Gardener

Found in: beBee jobs GB - 2 weeks ago

Reading, Reading, United Kingdom Folly Farm Estate Full time

Role Description

A skilled and passionate Head Gardener is sought to lead the continued development of the historically important Arts & Crafts gardens of Folly Farm Estate, in the Kennet Valley, Berkshire.

Widely considered to be Edward Lutyens' and Gertrude Jekyll's most successful collaboration, Folly Farm gardens comprise four acres of formal gardens and twenty-three acres of grounds, including meadows, woodland, and water courses. The Head Gardener will lead a team of Gardeners and Volunteers to shepherd the gardens and grounds into a future of sustainability and beauty, using careful and considered interventions to create a garden of outstanding ecology.

The role will suit an energetic, hands-on, and curious Head Gardener who can inspire a team and is passionate about contemporary approaches to horticulture. The right candidate will have the sensitivity and vision to develop the garden into a standard-bearer in ecology and sustainability, whilst honouring the history of the garden and delivering high standards of care and beauty throughout the year.

This is a hands-on role, with the Head Gardener expected to engage in gardening tasks alongside their team.

Person Specification:

  • Level 3 or above RHS horticultural qualification and/or equivalent experience as a Head Gardener.
  • Imagination and a creative eye in the development and maintenance of gardens.
  • Commitment to facilitating biodiversity and environmental enhancement.
  • A passion for contemporary and historical horticulture and a keen and knowledgeable plantsperson.
  • Accustomed to working organically.
  • Knowledge of lawn care and maintenance appropriate to each season.
  • Experience of writing and reviewing Garden Maintenance plans.
  • Proven ability to operate and maintain relevant garden machinery.
  • Knowledge of Health and Safety requirements related to garden and landscape maintenance, and experience of writing risk assessments.
  • Experience of project planning and budget management.
  • An aptitude for and experience of people management, with the ability to create a positive working environment.
  • Physical fitness to undertake the role.
  • IT literate, including MS 365.
  • Good presentation skills and a personable, open, and friendly approach.
  • Able to interact with a range of people, including the clients, stakeholders, colleagues, visitors, volunteers, and consultants.
  • Good communicator and experience of public presentations.
  • Adaptable to different working conditions, including willingness to work outside in all weathers.

    Package:
    • Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
    • Live-in position (essential).
    • Pension scheme.
    • Estate bonus scheme.
    • Optional private health insurance.

      Hours: 40

      Closing Date: 26 April 2024

      Start Date: As soon as possible

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