An exciting opportunity has become available for a knowledgeable and experienced Head Gardener to assist in the creation and maintenance of the stunning gardens of a private, historic property nestled in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. The Head Gardener will be joining the Estate at an exciting tie, as they will have the opportunity to play a key role in the development and implementation of a garden legacy project.
The estate extends across 800-acres and encompasses three private residences. Within its grounds lie a working farm, a business park, areas of woodland, formal gardens and much more. At its heart stands the main Grade II listed Georgian house, which has recently undergone extensive restoration and refurbishment. The surrounding gardens are next in line for transformation. They have already been cleared and are now ready for a new Head Gardener to take the lead, working closely with a landscape architect and landscaping team on the installation of an exciting new garden design as well as managing the existing horticultural team. Currently the estates already feature a diverse mix of formal gardens, parkland, manicured lawns, mature woodland, large walled kitchen garden, ornamental borders, lake and stunning water features. The grounds are maintained to an exceptionally high standard and serve as a peaceful & beautiful space – both horticulturally and sustainably.
Suitable applicants will have experience managing gardeners and gardening teams including contractors, across multiple sites/estates. Our client seeks an experiencedgardener to help maintain the gardens on a year-round basis following the annual calendar. Applicants will possess extensive experience working in a similar role within a private estate or public garden of importance setting. As such, excellent plant knowledge and technical skills are essential for this position with experience in compost management, propagation, pruning, weeding and rejuvenating beds. A self-motivated, organised individual with a self-start attitude and proven track record of managing a large garden as well as a team of staff, with a strong work ethic, and willingness to work to consistently high standards are qualities which are essential for this role. Candidates will be flexible and willing to extend their duties where needed. This is a physically demanding position which requires a fit and strong individual who is comfortable working in all weathers.
This role is open to a proactive and hands on Head Gardener with a creative flare and eye for design and detail who possess the skills and motivation to take on such a large project. The owners are passionate about their garden and are open to ideas the Head Gardener will have with regards to the development of the gardens. In time there may be the opportunity to grow the existing team to focus on the maintenance of the gardens.
This role is offered on a live-out basis; however, accommodation may be available if required. Options include a 1-bedroom annexe, suitable for a single occupant or couple, or a 3-bedroom cottage with its own garden. Both properties can be provided furnished or unfurnished, with all utilities covered by the owners. The only cost to the occupant will be council tax, which remains the candidate’s responsibility.
The position is full time and permanent. The working hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm (Summer) and 9.00am to 4.00pm (Winter) with occasional weekend working which can be taken back in lieu at times agreed.
Please note, the successful candidate with be offered subject to extensive reference checks (both written and verbal), DBS check as well as signing an NDA. Candidates will also need to provide evidence of qualifications held and hold a full driver’s licence due to the rural location of the property.
SALARY: Circa £45,000 DOE
LOCATION: Near Groombridge, East Sussex
JOB No: EC68873
Thank you for the interest you have shown in this vacancy. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of applications that we receive, it is not possible to respond to every one. Therefore, unless you hear from us within the next 14 days, your application for this vacancy has been unsuccessful.
If this vacancy is of interest, please click ‘Apply for job’ below’ or contact Sophie Sharpe on 01233 733510 or emailinfo@englishcountrygardeners.co.uk
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We are proud to work with:
* theProfessional Gardeners’ Guild
* theRHS
* theWFGA–offering the WRAGs Scheme
* Arne Maynard Garden Design
* Historic Houses
* the HBG Training Programme
Tagged as: East Sussex, full time, Gardener, head gardener
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