We’re looking for a Head Gardener to lead a team of staff and volunteers and to guide the care and future development of the garden at Mottistone.
This role is required to work with vulnerable groups including children and any offer of employment or volunteering is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
What it's like to work here
The Trust owns and looks after 10% of the total area of the Isle of Wight, including 17 miles of coastline, many areas of outstanding natural beauty and several unique historic attractions and features. We have 16 holiday cottages in our care on the Isle of Wight ranging from one to seven bedroom properties.
What you'll be doing
As our Head Gardener, you’ll be managing a small team of predominantly volunteers. You’ll also lead any projects to restore or rework areas of the garden, giving you the opportunity for hands-on creativity and a dynamic approach to gardening.
You'll work with colleagues from other departments to make sure that people visiting can experience everything that makes this garden so special, including its stories, its challenges and the wildlife to be found within it.
Your priority will be to make sure that everyone feels welcome here. You’ll demonstrate inclusive leadership and work with others to make the changes needed to improve access to the garden. You’ll have a close working relationship with experts from the Trust’s internal consultancy, as well as working with and learning from others beyond the Trust.
As a senior leader, you'll be expected to work some weekends and bank holidays.
Who we're looking for:
* significant practical horticultural experience supported by appropriate qualifications to at least RHS level 3 or above (or equivalent vocational experience)
* a leader with experience of managing and supporting teams of staff and volunteers
* experience of managing a diverse garden throughout the seasons and able to draw on your excellent knowledge of plants and plant care
* knowledge and understanding of the conservation of historic landscapes and the ability to work with key management documents including Statement of Significance, Conservation Management Plan and the Garden Management Plan
* experience with managing operational risk and compliance requirements relevant to horticulture
* experience with managing resources, budgets and work plans to ensure quality delivery
* a leader for inclusion, who finds ways to create an inclusive culture
* ability to manage conflicting priorities
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re 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 places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
* Rental deposit loan scheme
* Season ticket loan
* EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
* Perks at work discounts such as 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 Trust places