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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team at Dawyck Botanic Garden, focusing on plant care and community engagement.
- Company: Join the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a leader in plant conservation and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holidays, Civil Service pension, and more perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on biodiversity while working in a stunning natural environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in botanic gardens, strong leadership skills, and relevant horticultural qualifications required.
- Other info: Informal discussions available; apply by 4 August 2025 for a chance to interview.
The predicted salary is between 45712 - 50980 £ per year.
Organisation: The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Salary: £45,712 to £50,980 (pay award pending) plus generous holiday entitlement, Civil Service Pension and other benefits
Location: Peebles
Full-time (35 hours), permanent, based at Dawyck Botanic Garden
Salary: £45,712 to £50,980 (pay award pending) plus generous holiday entitlement, Civil Service pension and other benefits
At the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE), we’re passionate about plants and their power to inspire, educate, and connect people. We’re looking for a Curator to lead the team at Dawyck Botanic Garden—one of the world’s finest arboreta, nestled in 65 acres of breathtaking woodland and burnside walks.
This is a unique opportunity to combine your horticultural expertise with leadership, creativity, and a deep commitment to biodiversity and community engagement.
As Curator, you will play a central role in championing the care and cultivation of Dawyck’s living collection, using climate-conscious and biodiversity-friendly practices. You’ll lead and inspire a small, dedicated team, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. Working closely with our science, learning, and visitor teams, you’ll help create a welcoming and inclusive experience for all who visit. You’ll also represent Dawyck both locally and internationally, building strong relationships with communities and stakeholders. Importantly, you’ll contribute to shaping and delivering RBGE’s strategic goals, ensuring Dawyck continues to thrive as a place of beauty, learning, and connection.
We’re looking for someone with experience working with scientific plant collections in a botanic garden, strong leadership and communication skills, and a solid understanding of modern horticultural practices and plant conservation. You’ll bring proven project management abilities, a passion for engaging diverse audiences, and hold relevant horticultural qualifications along with a valid UK driver’s licence. Experience in budgeting, procurement, teaching, or fundraising would be an added bonus.
To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Gillian Williamson at gwilliamson@rbge.org.uk
To apply, please visit our website.
Closing date: Midday (BST) on Monday 4 August 2025
Interview date: 14 August 2025 at Dawyck Botanic Garden
If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been shortlisted. No recruitment agencies please.
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Curator, Dawyck Botanic Garden employer: ASVA: Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions
Contact Detail:
ASVA: Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Curator, Dawyck Botanic Garden
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific plant collections at Dawyck Botanic Garden. Understanding their unique features and conservation efforts will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the botanic garden community. Attend relevant events or workshops to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role or the organisation, which could give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you foster collaboration within a team. Think of specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to inspire and manage a diverse group effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the strategic goals of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Being able to articulate how your vision aligns with their objectives will show that you are not only a good fit for the role but also genuinely invested in their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Curator, Dawyck Botanic Garden
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Curator position. Highlight your relevant experience in horticulture and leadership in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience with scientific plant collections, project management, and community engagement. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements related to the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for biodiversity and community involvement. Explain why you are the perfect fit for the Curator role at Dawyck Botanic Garden and how you can contribute to their strategic goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at ASVA: Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions
✨Show Your Passion for Plants
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for horticulture and biodiversity during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've engaged with plant collections in the past, and discuss any innovative practices you've implemented.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Curator, you'll be leading a team, so it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully managed teams, fostered collaboration, and inspired others in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Community Engagement Questions
Since community engagement is a key part of the role, think about how you've previously connected with diverse audiences. Be ready to share strategies you've used to make botanical experiences inclusive and welcoming.
✨Know the Strategic Goals of RBGE
Familiarise yourself with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh's strategic goals and how Dawyck Botanic Garden fits into them. This will show your commitment to the organisation's mission and your readiness to contribute to its future.
