Horticultural Trials Manager
Location: Shropshire, UK | Full-time | Some international travel required
A well-established and highly respected horticultural business in the UK is seeking a passionate and experienced individual to lead their trials programme.
This is a rare opportunity to join a close-knit and forward-thinking team, based in the idyllic English countryside, where tradition and modern horticultural science go hand in hand.
About the Role
This pivotal position bridges research, production, and commercial strategy. You'll be responsible for planning, executing, and analysing trials, ensuring that each trial supports both commercial goals and long-term breeding innovation. You'll collaborate across departments and lead seasonal teams to deliver high-quality data and insights.
While based primarily in the UK, some international travel may be involved-flexibility will be reciprocated with time off in lieu.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the planning and execution of trials related to new varieties, growing techniques, and disease control strategies.
Monitor and document plant health, flowering, and performance characteristics.
Maintain rigorous, detailed records using trial management software.
Analyse data and translate findings into clear, actionable reports and presentations.
Manage seasonal staff and ensure high standards of plant care and biosecurity are maintained.
What We're Looking For
Strong hands-on experience in commercial horticulture, ideally with ornamental plants.
A relevant qualification in Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related field is desirable.
Solid knowledge of growing techniques, pest and disease management, and plant trial methodologies.
Experience running horticultural trials, with strong record-keeping and data analysis skills.
Confident communicator, able to present findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Collaborative and organised, with strong time management and leadership capabilities.
Comfortable using Microsoft Office and basic trial or data software (e.g., Excel, field apps).
Why Apply?
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a brand admired around the world for its excellence and innovation-while enjoying the sense of community and natural beauty that comes with working in the countryside.
Whether you're already experienced in trials or come from another area of horticulture and are looking for your next challenge, we want to hear from you.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds. If you don't meet every single requirement, but are passionate about horticulture and excited by this role, we'd still love to hear from you.
Interested? For an informal chat, please call Emily on (phone number removed), email (url removed) or message me on LinkedIn. Don't worry if your CV isn't up to date, just send what you have already, and we can sort the rest later.
INDGC