Head Gardener: Lead a World-Class Garden Team

ARVO; Franschhoek; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

ARVO in Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa, seeks a visionary Head Gardener to lead a world-class gardening team and drive the garden's ongoing development.

The ideal candidate combines strong horticultural knowledge with proven leadership, strategic thinking and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. You will oversee about 70 staff, manage budgets, and develop new landscaping and garden projects.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' experience in horticulture or agriculture.
• Proven ability to lead a large, diverse team with enthusiasm and respect.
• Strong leadership, motivation and team-building skills.
• Excellent organizational and planning abilities.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems and drainage.
• Understanding of the tourism industry and logistical planning.
• Proven project and contract management experience.
• High energy, a positive attitude and a passion for guest experiences.
• A genuine passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop and inspire a diverse gardening team of approximately 70 employees.
• Manage staff development and performance.
• Ensure optimum maintenance of gardening and farming equipment.
• Develop fertilisation and integrated pest management programmes.
• Plan, implement and monitor irrigation systems.
• Lead landscaping and garden projects.
• Manage budgets responsibly and efficiently.
• Maintain consistently high standards and drive continuous improvement across the garden operation.
• Share horticultural knowledge through inspiring workshops and gardening presentations for visitors and teams.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budget management

Irrigation planning

Garden maintenance

Education

Relevant academic qualification

Job description

ARVO in Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa, seeks a visionary Head Gardener to lead a world-class gardening team and drive the garden's ongoing development.

The ideal candidate combines strong horticultural knowledge with proven leadership, strategic thinking and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. You will oversee about 70 staff, manage budgets, and develop new landscaping and garden projects.