Head Gardener, Benarth Hall

Horticulture Jobs; Conwy; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equipment provided

Holiday entitlement: 28 days incl bank

Job summary

Benarth Hall, a Grade II listed estate on the North Wales coast, seeks a Head Gardener (or a capable Senior Gardener) to lead the gardens and wider estate. This hands-on role requires practical horticulturist with a passion for high standards, working with a small team and contractors when needed.

You will collaborate with the garden designer and owners, plan daily and seasonal work, maintain equipment safely, and help develop the garden within woodland surroundings.

Qualifications

• Horticultural Level 3 qualification or equivalent.
• Good plant knowledge and practical horticultural experience.
• Experience leading a small team.
• Impeccable communication and organisational skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and nurture a small team of two full-time staff.
• Plan daily and seasonal work programmes to ensure priorities are completed efficiently.
• Develop and maintain the garden in collaboration with the garden designer and owner.
• Develop and maintain equipment safety and proper use; engage contractors when required.

Skills

Horticultural Level 3

Leadership

Plant knowledge

Team management

Education

Horticultural Level 3 qualification

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 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. Some flexibility can be discussed. Holiday entitlement: 28 days to include bank holidays.