At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage grounds, assist with events, and ensure guest safety during night shifts.
- Company: Award-winning Georgian country house and events venue in Oxfordshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contributions, and 28 days paid leave.
- Other info: Full-time role with flexible hours and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and make memorable events happen in a stunning setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality, maintenance skills, and a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 34500 - 34500 £ per year.
A varied hands-on role at Ardington House, Oxfordshire. Ardington House is a Georgian country house and events venue near Wantage, Oxfordshire, and an award-winning venue, named Best Country House Wedding Venue. We are recruiting for a new role combining grounds, maintenance, event preparation and night management duties across our busy wedding and events season.
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
- Salary of £34,500 per annum
- Workplace pension with employer contribution
- 28 days’ paid annual leave per year, inclusive of bank holidays
HOURS
This is a full-time role, normally worked Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. The role also includes approximately 40 event-night shifts per year, predominantly on Saturdays between April and October, typically from 5pm or 6pm until 1am. These shifts form part of the contracted hours and are balanced by equivalent time off during the working week.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Groundskeeper – Gardening assistance to the contract gardener, including using machinery for hedge cutting, mowing, strimming, log cutting and splitting, seeding, watering, leaf clearing, path and drive upkeep, flower care, weeding, planting, and general care of the gardens, grounds and machinery.
- Maintenance – Fixing minor damage and general maintenance around the House, including fault finding, basic repairs, floor care, painting, varnishing. Basic knowledge of electrics and plumbing would be advantageous.
- Event Preparation – Assisting the Operations Manager with wedding preparations including moving event furniture and supervising suppliers onsite.
- Night Manager - On event days, predominantly Saturday evenings between April and October, you will typically work from 5pm until 1am to monitor the event and manage the venue at close. You will act as the venue’s responsible duty manager, ensuring the safe and orderly departure of guests. Previous hospitality experience and confidence managing guests are essential.
SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- A current first-aid qualification is desirable
- A full UK driving licence is essential, as the role includes occasional collection of supplies.
- Confident with garden machinery and hand tools
- Practical maintenance skills across trades
- Calm, courteous and confident in managing guests late in the evening
LOCATION
Due to the rural location and late-night finishes, applicants must have reliable transport to and from Ardington House, near Wantage.
Groundskeeper and Night Manager in Wantage employer: Ardington House
Ardington House offers a unique opportunity to work in a stunning Georgian country house setting, renowned for its award-winning events. As an employer, we prioritise employee well-being with a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a supportive work culture that encourages growth and development. Join our dedicated team where your contributions directly enhance memorable experiences for our guests, all while enjoying the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Groundskeeper and Night Manager in Wantage
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Ardington House. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Ardington House
Don't be shy about reaching out to Ardington House directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Groundskeeper and Night Manager in Wantage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Ardington House and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ardington House
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
