Head Gardener

This is a rare opportunity to join a prestigious private estate in the Cotswolds. Known for its breathtaking parkland, ornamental gardens, and woodlands, the gardens have been featured in multiple media publications. Our client is seeking a skilled and passionate Head Gardener to oversee the estate’s garden maintenance and development, working closely with a dedicated team to bring the family’s vision to life.

As Head Gardener, you will lead a small team, setting high standards for garden management and supporting your team in developing their skills. We’re looking for a knowledgeable, professional, and proactive individual with a genuine passion for horticulture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of Gardeners in garden maintenance tasks including bed management, hedge cutting, pruning, woodland maintenance, lawn mowing, and other traditional gardening tasks.
• Supervise staff scheduling, foster a positive work environment, and encourage continuous learning within the team.
• Ensure compliance with all health & safety regulations for safe working practices.
• Work alongside the family and garden designer to attain the estate’s vision, handling project planning and overseeing completion within budget and time constraints.
• Manage external contractors to ensure high work standards and oversee garden construction or renovation projects.
• Prepare the gardens for key family events, manage an annual budget for upkeep, and maintain accurate expense records.
• Oversee the development of new areas, such as a cutting and seasonal kitchen garden.

General Responsibilities

• Perform in-depth bed work, including weeding, pruning, feeding, mulching, deadheading, and climber training.
• Manage soil preparation, pest control, greenhouse/nursery plant care, and irrigation schedules.
• Maintaining lawns, ponds, water features, and lakes ensures a healthy ecosystem.
• Regular upkeep of garden paths, water features, and garden structures.
• Oversee the use, maintenance, and storage of garden machinery and tools, reporting any needed repairs or replacements.

Experience & Knowledge

• Relevant horticultural qualifications (ideally RHS Level 3 or equivalent).
• Proven experience in a similar Head Gardener role with excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong knowledge of plant care, hard landscaping, and machinery operation.
• Full, clean driving licence with experience in driving 4×4 vehicles and towing trailers.
• Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and ability to work under pressure.
• Physically fit to meet the demands of the role.
• Positive, proactive attitude with a passion for horticulture and environmental stewardship.