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- Tasks: Lead the management and maintenance of the Museum's stunning gardens.
- Company: Join a world-class science research centre with over 80 million objects and 5 million visitors annually.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27.5 days holiday, a generous pension scheme, and discounts at shops and cafes.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on conservation while inspiring millions to care for our planet.
- Qualifications: Seeking experienced horticulturalists with team management skills and plant care expertise.
- Other info: This role is 100% on-site, perfect for those passionate about nature and education.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are a world-class visitor attraction and leading science research centre. We use the Museum's unique collections and our unrivalled expertise to tackle the biggest challenges facing the world today. We care for more than 80 million objects spanning billions of years and welcome more than five million visitors annually and 16 million visits to our website.
Today the Museum is more relevant and influential than ever. By attracting people from a range of backgrounds to work for us, we can continue to look at the world with fresh eyes and find new ways of doing things. We employ 900 staff in a variety of roles, all united by our vision of a future where people and planet thrive. We need everyone to have the passion and drive to help us with our mission to create advocates for our planet and inspire millions to care about the natural world.
Diversity and inclusion matter to us. Our vision is of a future where both people and the planet thrive. Diversity is one of our core values and we strive to build a workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging. All new staff who join us learn about the importance of diversity and inclusion to the Museum and how to contribute to creating an inclusive environment. We know we have more to do, but we are committed to ensuring that everyone who works at the Museum feels they can thrive and feel valued and respected.
About The Role The Head Gardener plays a lead custodial role in the management, maintenance, advocacy and public facing communication of the Museum's Gardens as a large living exhibit. Responsible for the day-to-day management and presentation of the Museum's external spaces, they lead the delivery of high-quality horticultural and habitat maintenance as well as general oversight of the Gardens in facilitation of scientific, learning and formal and informal engagement activities.
About You The Museum is seeking a qualified horticulturalist with experience of managing teams and activities within a Botanical Garden, public park or publicly accessible garden. The successful candidate will have excellent knowledge of plant care and cultivation, practical experience of conservation management and experience of leading teams and managing apprentices and volunteers.
What We Offer
- 27.5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (full time equivalent)
- Generous defined contribution Natural History Museum Pension Scheme (employer contribution 4 - 10%)
- Season ticket, bicycle and rental loan
- Life insurance
- Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across London and the UK.
- Staff discount at our Museum shops and cafes
- We offer a wide variety of training initiatives and opportunities to build skills. Investing in staff development is important to us, and we are ambitious about helping staff to grow and fulfil their potential.
- Affordable membership to the Civil Service Sports Council which offers a range of benefits including an extensive list of special offers and reduced entry fees at a selection of cinema chains, theme parks, theatres, retailers and supermarkets. It also provides entry to up to 300 English Heritage sites and other national treasures.
- Membership to our Sports and Social Association (for a small fee), which includes access to our in-house gym and clubs such as football, softball, table tennis and tennis and classes in Middle Eastern dance, yoga and Tai Chi.
Hybrid working Due to the nature of this role the work pattern will be 100% on site.
How To Apply If this sounds like you, please apply below by clicking on Apply for job. Please note that as part of our commitment to anonymised shortlisting, panels do not view CVs during the recruitment process. If you choose to upload your CV, our system will automatically pull information from your CV into our application form. We advise you to double-check your application form data before submitting as the tool may interpret CVs differently.
Closing date: 23:59 on 8 July 2025
Interviews expected: w/c 21 July 2025
Please note that this role does not qualify for Museum sponsorship so the successful postholder will need to have a valid right to work in the UK at the point of offer.
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Management and Manufacturing
Industries: Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos
Head Gardener employer: Natural History Museum
Contact Detail:
Natural History Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Natural History Museum's gardens and their unique features. Understanding the specific plants, habitats, and conservation efforts they focus on will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Museum, especially those in horticultural roles. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be beneficial when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any relevant experiences managing teams or projects. The role requires overseeing volunteers and apprentices, so highlighting your ability to inspire and guide others will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in horticulture and conservation management. Being able to discuss recent developments or innovative practices in gardening will demonstrate your commitment to the field and align with the Museum's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Head Gardener position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in horticulture and team management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gardening and conservation. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and maintain gardens, aligning with the Museum's mission and values.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on your previous roles related to horticulture, especially any experience in public gardens or botanical settings. Include details about your leadership skills and any successful projects you've managed.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for the Head Gardener role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Natural History Museum
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Make sure to express your genuine love for gardening and plant care during the interview. Share specific experiences that highlight your dedication to horticulture, such as successful projects or unique plants you've cultivated.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Gardener, you'll be managing teams and volunteers. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led a team in previous roles, particularly in a garden or park setting.
✨Highlight Your Knowledge of Conservation
The role requires practical experience in conservation management. Be ready to talk about your understanding of sustainable practices and how you've implemented them in past positions to protect and enhance natural habitats.
✨Prepare Questions About Diversity and Inclusion
Since the Museum values diversity and inclusion, come prepared with thoughtful questions about their initiatives. This shows that you align with their values and are interested in contributing to an inclusive workplace.
