At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the restoration of a historic garden and manage a team of gardeners.
- Company: Join a stunning country estate with over 1,000 acres of picturesque farmland.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and work in an inspiring countryside setting.
- Other info: This role offers both live-in and live-out options.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on a prestigious garden while nurturing your passion for horticulture.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised horticultural qualification and experience in managing large gardens.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Senior Gardener – Live-in-or-Live-out
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and passionate Senior Gardener to lead the restoration of a historic (Grade 1 listed) garden on a stunning country estate. This mature garden, featuring substantial park and lakeland, lawned areas, ancient woodland and trees, an established vegetable garden with fruit trees, ornamental planting, walled garden and water garden is ready for a creative and dedicated gardener to bring it back to its former glory.
Set in a rural area near Reading in the Berkshire countryside, the estate spans over 1,000 acres of picturesque farmland, bordered by serene rivers and home to a variety of facilities, including a traditional working farm, luxury equestrian centre, and wildlife management areas. This is a unique and inspiring setting for a skilled gardener to thrive.
The Senior Gardener will report on a daily basis to the Operations Manager for all aspects of the work, however will frequently report directly to the family regarding their desires in respect of the gardens and grounds.
Key Responsibilities:
● Oversee the restoration, maintenance and ongoing enhancement of the Hall gardens to a Grade I listed standard.
● Manage a team of 2 gardeners and additional apprentices and seasonal labourers, providing guidance, ongoing training and supervision.
● Work under direction of the family to develop and execute a vision for the Hall gardens.
● Manage the lawned areas, parkland, trees and fruiting trees, vegetable garden, ornamental areas, walled garden and water garden with expertise and care.
● To deliver on budget for the gardens with the support and oversight of the Operations Manager.
● Ensure all work adheres to environmental best practices and safety standards.
● To ensure Garden machinery, equipment and vehicles are maintained and records kept detailing maintenance and safety checks.
Qualifications and Skills Required:
The ideal candidate will have:
● A recognised horticultural qualification, such as RHS Level 3 (or equivalent)
● Proven experience in managing large and historically significant gardens.
● Exceptional garden design and restoration skills.
● Strong leadership and team management experience.
● Thorough understanding of plants, soil management, and environmental practices.
● Excellent organisational and communication skills.
● A truly hands-on approach, speed & efficiency in executing tasks personally to a high standard as well as collaborating with, training & supervising others.
● Genuine passion for gardening and creating beautiful spaces.
What We Offer:
● The opportunity to make a lasting impact by restoring and revitalising a prestigious garden.
● Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
● The chance to work in a picturesque and inspiring countryside setting.
This private advert is being managed directly by the employer. English Country Gardeners are not involved in the hiring process and are therefore unable to share any additional information on this role. If you have any questions regarding this position, the best course of action is to apply for the job which will open a line of communication with the employer.
If you would like to view more information on the Professional Gardeners Guild, please clickhereand the Royal Horticultural Society, please clickhere.
For more gardener roles please clickhere.
Tagged as: Berkshire, Live In OR Live out, Reading, Senior Gardener
#J-18808-LjbffrSenior Gardener – Live-in or Live-out in Reading employer: ECG Limited
Join a prestigious country estate in the Berkshire countryside as a Senior Gardener, where you will have the unique opportunity to lead the restoration of a historic Grade I listed garden. Our work culture fosters creativity and collaboration, allowing you to make a lasting impact while enjoying a picturesque setting that inspires both personal and professional growth. With competitive salaries and a supportive environment, we are dedicated to nurturing your passion for gardening and providing you with the tools to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Gardener – Live-in or Live-out in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific plants and historical features of Grade I listed gardens. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with other professionals in the horticultural field, especially those who have experience with historic gardens. They can provide valuable insights and may even refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. Highlight specific examples where your guidance led to successful garden projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the estate and its history thoroughly. Understanding the family's vision for the garden will allow you to tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to their goals during discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Gardener – Live-in or Live-out in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Senior Gardener position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in managing large gardens and leading teams.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your horticultural qualifications and any previous experience with historic gardens. Provide specific examples of projects you've led or contributed to that demonstrate your garden design and restoration skills.
Showcase Leadership Skills:Since the role involves managing a team, make sure to include details about your leadership experience. Discuss how you've trained and supervised others in gardening tasks, and how you’ve successfully managed projects within budget.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for gardening and your vision for restoring the estate's gardens. Address how your skills align with the family's desires for the garden and your commitment to environmental best practices.
How to prepare for a job interview at ECG Limited
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous gardening roles, especially those involving large or historically significant gardens. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully restored or maintained gardens, and be ready to share the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, it's crucial to illustrate your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've trained or supervised others in the past, and discuss your approach to fostering teamwork and collaboration among gardeners.
✨Discuss Your Vision
The employer is looking for someone who can develop and execute a vision for the gardens. Prepare to articulate your ideas on garden design and restoration, and how you would approach bringing the historic garden back to its former glory while considering the family's desires.
✨Emphasise Environmental Practices
Given the importance of adhering to environmental best practices, be ready to talk about your knowledge of sustainable gardening techniques. Discuss any relevant certifications or training you have, and provide examples of how you've implemented eco-friendly practices in your previous roles.
