Head Gardener

A talented and experienced Head Gardener is sought after to join a growing team on a family-owned estate in the Cotswolds.

The 96-acre estate consists of rolling parklands, formal lawns, immaculate hedges, small mixed borders, a small orchard, walled garden areas, a beautiful and productive kitchen garden, mixed and conifer woodlands and a large pond. There are also a few farmanimals kept as pets and dogs who live in the house. Much of the parkland is in transition from hay meadow to wildflower, while other smaller areas are still managed as hay meadows. The orchard contains a few heritage apple and pear varieties, espalier fruitand ornamental cherries.

The role does require some time spent in the office as well as practical gardening tasks. Computer literacy is a must and a basic knowledge of record keeping and Health & Safety requirements is needed. The Head Gardener is responsible for tracking the gardenand grounds finances and therefore must maintain up to date records which can be used by the owners accountants and financial management team. The role also requires facilitating all external contractors completing outdoor tasks, i.e., walling, gate servicing,machinery servicing etc. Therefore, a good all round practical knowledge of estates is necessary, as well as a desire to learn new skills from the current staff members.

The Head Gardener will be responsible for all outdoor areas of the estate being kept to the owners high standards and therefore a keen eye for detail is required. Estate work is varied and some flexibility is needed, occasional 'other’ duties may be requiredsuch as driving errands, assisting the house staff moving furniture, harvesting vegetables, cutting flowers for the house etc.

The garden is equipped with a range of machinery hence basic knowledge of most powered garden tools and experience using them safely is a must.

**SALARY**:£35,000 - £40,000
**LOCATION**: Near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

**JOB No**:EC40265