At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of our gardens into world-class spaces and inspire a passionate team.
- Company: Join the iconic Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, part of the prestigious Belmond & LVMH family.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, global career opportunities, and discounts across luxury hotels.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that values kindness, learning, and personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of luxury hospitality and create unforgettable experiences in stunning gardens.
- Qualifications: Degree in Horticulture or related field, with proven garden design and management experience.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Help us reopen an icon! Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is entering one of the most important chapters in its history. As we prepare to reopen, we are looking for a talented and forward-thinking Head of Gardens and Horticulture to help translate our vision across every aspect of our Gardens. This is not simply an opportunity to join an established luxury hotel; it is a chance to help shape how one of the world’s most celebrated properties will be experienced for the next generation and to craft the gardens into world class spaces that lead the way in the industry. The Head of Gardens and Horticulture will play a pivotal role in preserving the natural beauty and charm of our outdoor spaces while elevating them to new heights of excellence. If you are looking to develop your skills and be part of the future of luxury, this is your moment to join us for this once in a lifetime role.
Primary Responsibilities Include:
- Develop and implement strategic plans for the ongoing maintenance, enhancement, and development of the gardens in alignment with Le Manoir's overall vision and standards.
- Design and execute innovative garden plans that reflect the aesthetic and ambiance of Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, incorporating beauty, functionality, and sustainability.
- Recruit and continually develop the Gardens, Raymond Blanc Garden School, and Florist teams to achieve their personal best.
- Deliver excellence to the highest standard in all aspects of the gardens, including appearance, working standards, team development, and guest experience.
- Hold and continually increase knowledge of all aspects of the gardens, aiming to be seen as a true expert in the field.
- Implement environmentally sustainable practices in garden maintenance and management, including water conservation, organic gardening methods, and native plantings.
- Monitor and address issues related to garden health, pest control, and disease management, taking proactive measures to preserve the integrity and vitality of the gardens.
- Engage with guests who have an interest in the gardens, providing tours, educational experiences, and personalised recommendations to enhance their enjoyment and appreciation of the outdoor spaces.
About Us:
Experience the best gardens and gastronomy in the English countryside. Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons offers a distinctive combination of inspired history and impassioned innovation in culture and gastronomy. It has received international acclaim since opening, earning it two Michelin stars. Le Manoir is a place that brings the outside in; exploring the sprawling gardens, orchard and vineyard before finding verdant and cultural touches in the décor and artefacts of the interiors. With our vast offerings, the opportunities to craft a unique career here are endless. Join us and achieve the truly exceptional.
The Belmond & LVMH Family:
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is proud to be part of LVMH, and the Belmond global collection of iconic hotels, trains and river cruises, all creating exceptional experiences worldwide. When you join one of our properties, you join a global family of history-rich hotels and breathtaking destinations, where our employees are at the heart of the Belmond experience.
Requirements - What You Bring:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, Botany, or a related field preferable.
- Proven experience in garden design, maintenance, and management, preferably in a luxury hospitality or estate setting.
- Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a team to achieve excellence.
- Creative vision and a passion for gardens, with a keen eye for design, aesthetics, and detail.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, guests, and external partners.
- Knowledge of environmental sustainability practices and a commitment to implementing eco-friendly initiatives in garden management.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines with grace and professionalism.
Benefits - What We Offer:
At Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, our culture is built on kindness, active listening and genuine connections between our colleagues, guests and community. We offer a carefully considered range of compensation, benefits and development opportunities, including:
- Global career opportunities within Belmond and LVMH
- A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
- A culture that actively supports learning, development and career progression
- Complimentary accommodation at Belmond hotels
- Preferential rates across Belmond hotels, trains, cruises and safaris
- Discounts on food and beverage
We are committed to creating an environment in which our colleagues can thrive both personally and professionally. You will have the opportunity to grow alongside some of the most talented people in luxury hospitality while helping to create unforgettable experiences for our guests, our community and each other.
Head of Gardens and Horticulture in Oxford employer: Belmond
Belmond is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work aboard the luxurious Britannic Explorer, where you can immerse yourself in a vibrant team culture dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences. With a focus on employee growth and development, you will enjoy benefits such as health insurance and engaging team events, all while being part of a prestigious brand that values storytelling in travel.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Gardens and Horticulture in Oxford
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like Belmond.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like Belmond.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at Belmond; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Gardens and Horticulture in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at Belmond.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Head of Gardens and Horticulture.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Belmond is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at Belmond a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Belmond
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at Belmond might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
