Benarth Hall, Head Gardener.

Benarth Hall; Wales; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

28 days holiday incl bank holidays

Equipment provided

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Benarth Hall, a Grade II listed estate on the North Wales coast, seeks an experienced Head Gardener (or capable Senior Gardener ready to lead) to oversee day-to-day care and ongoing development of the gardens and wider estate.

You will lead a small team of two staff, work closely with the garden designer and owners, and plan daily and seasonal programmes to maintain exceptionally high standards across all garden areas.

Qualifications

• Horticultural Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
• Good plant knowledge.
• Strong practical horticultural experience.
• Ability to lead a small team.
• Impeccable communication and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day care and continued development of the gardens and wider estate.
• Lead, support and nurture a small team of staff and contractors.
• Plan daily and seasonal work programmes and priorities.
• Work closely with the garden designer and owners to enhance the gardens.
• Develop and maintain the garden in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Progress from Senior Gardener to Head Gardener with experience and training.

Skills

Plant knowledge

Practical horticultural experience

Leadership

Education

Horticultural Level 3 qualification or equivalent

Job description

Benarth Hall is a Grade II listed estate on the very beautiful North Wales coast. An exceptional garden has been created on a uniquely elevated site which sits within woodland, abundant with wildlife and panoramic views across the Conwy estuary. The estate owners are passionate about the gardens and committed to their continued development and enhancement. The master plan was conceived by the previous owners and has been continually developed by nationally renowned, award-winning garden designers Julie Toll and Ian Kitson. The extensive grounds comprise a tapestry of distinct horticultural zones, each requiring expert and specialised care. The garden sits enclosed by SSSI woodland which are protected and presents opportunities to manage the estate in ways that increasingly support ecology and the environment.

The gardens The grounds include formal areas with elegant topiary, meticulously maintained hedges and expansive manicured lawns. Mixed borders feature sweeping, vibrant beds densely planted with a sophisticated combination of specimen shrubs, mature trees, perennials and bulbs. Further highlights include a beautifully engineered stream bank, a woodland and water garden, and a serene naturalistic woodland escape centred around a flowing stream and a large contemporary pond. An exciting expansion project is also under way to incorporate an adjacent property with its own walled garden and glasshouse.

The role as Head Gardener or Senior Gardener

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Head Gardener (or a very capable Senior Gardener who could develop into the Head Gardener role) to take responsibility for the day-to-day care and continued development of the gardens and wider estate. This is a fully hands-on role for a practical and highly motivated horticulturist who takes pride in maintaining exceptional standards.

The successful candidate will lead, support and nurture our team of two very committed full-time staff. Specialist contractors are engaged when required.

The Head Gardener will work very closely with the garden designer and owners to ensure the continued development and enhancement of the gardens. The owners are committed to supporting the continued professional development of the Head Gardener and the wider team. A comprehensive range of equipment and good facilities are provided.

About you

The ideal candidate will have good plant knowledge, strong practical horticultural experience and the confidence to lead a small team in a friendly and rewarding private-estate environment.

Promoting high standards of teamwork, communication, safety and presentation across the gardens.

Planning daily and seasonal work programmes and ensuring that priorities are completed efficiently.

Using and maintaining horticultural equipment safely and responsibly.

Developing and maintaining the garden in collaboration with the garden designer and owner.

Senior Gardener option - Applications would also be welcomed from candidates who have the necessary skills and experience but who could be appointed at a senior level and then progress to the title of Head Gardener with further experience and training.

Essential and desirable attributes

• Horticultural Level 3 qualification or equivalent plus.
• Practical experience caring for a high-quality garden.
• Good plant knowledge and a strong understanding of seasonal maintenance.
• Experience with formal gardens, herbaceous borders, shrubs, trees, lawns and woodland planting.
• Impeccable communication and organisational skills.
• Practical leadership skills and the ability to motivate and support a small team.
• A proactive, conscientious and flexible approach to work.
• Relevant machinery, spraying or other competency certificates, where appropriate.
• A good understanding of safe working.
• A full UK driving licence.
• A genuine passion for horticulture and maintaining gardens to the highest standards.

Salary:

Will reflect the Professional Gardeners' Guild salary guidelines, £39,539 to £54,417 and will be determined by the candidate’s experience and immediate capability.

Holiday entitlement:

28 days to include bank holidays.