Head Gardener - Harrogate

Head Gardener - Harrogate

Harrogate Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team of gardeners, ensuring stunning grounds and gardens at a luxury hotel.
  • Company: Grantley Hall is a five-star hotel blending historic charm with modern luxury in North Yorkshire.
  • Benefits: Enjoy tips, complimentary meals, gym access, and 31 days annual leave plus many more perks.
  • Why this job: Join a prestigious hotel known for excellence and creativity in maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces.
  • Qualifications: 5 years' experience in gardening, strong leadership skills, and RHS Level 3 qualification preferred.
  • Other info: Be part of a supportive team culture with opportunities for professional development and recognition.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

HEAD GARDENER – Harrogate
HEAD GARDENER

Full Time

Competitive rate of pay plus monthly service charge, typically 2,400 annually

37.5 hours

Nestled in the North Yorkshire countryside, Grantley Hall is a five-star, 17th-century property offering a blend of stately grandeur and contemporary luxury. A leader in luxury hospitality, it was the first UK hotel to achieve Hospitality Assured World Class Status and also received a Two MICHELIN Key Distinction in 2024. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and PoB Hotels, it features 47 opulent rooms and suites, five restaurants, three bars, an award-winning spa, and a cutting-edge gym, making Grantley Hall a truly distinctive luxury experience. The hotel is also a member of Forbes Travel Guide which recognises a commitment to service excellence across the globe.

Key Responsibilities

• Daily leadership of a team of Gardeners, taking full responsibility for task planning, delegation, and supervision.
• Collaborate with the Facilities Director on all major projects and initiatives relating to the grounds and gardens.
• Provide regular updates and seek approval from the executive team for significant changes or proposals via email or in meetings.
• Represent the gardening team in meetings with the executive team when required.
• Ensure all garden and grounds areas are consistently presented to an exceptional standard, in line with the luxury expectations of the hotel.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive working culture with the wider Estates team.
• Assist with general estate duties during off-peak seasons or during special events.
• Proactively identify opportunities for improvement in garden design, layout, and maintenance to enhance guest experience.
• Managing and overseeing the budget for the garden and the grounds.
• Ensure safe working practices are followed at all times, including proper use of tools and equipment.
• Monitor and manage garden-related supplies and liaise with suppliers when necessary

Key Skills, Qualities & Experience

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage a small team effectively.
• 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
• RHS Level 3 qualification is extremely desirable.
• Hands-on approach, always leading by example and maintaining a high standard of work.
• A passion for creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces.
• Detail-oriented and committed to upholding luxury standards across all aspects of the estate grounds.
• Positive attitude, eager to learn and open to feedback.
• Excellent communication skills; friendly, courteous, and confident when dealing with colleagues and guests.
• Able to manage time effectively, meet deadlines, and work well under pressure.
• Willingness to support the wider Estates and hotel teams wherever needed.
• Experience working in a similar high-end or luxury environment is highly desirable

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits and have excellent opportunities for career development and provide exceptional training programmes for all employees:

  • Tips typically over £200 per month (£2,400 per year)
  • Complimentary bespoke uniform and chef whites
  • Complimentary meals whilst on duty
  • Refer a Friend bonus – Earn up to £1000
  • Complimentary employee car parking
  • Complimentary state of the art onsite gym – with personal trainer support
  • 31 days annual leave (including bank holidays) increasing with service
  • Professional development opportunities at all levels
  • Reimbursement on work shoes, sight tests and professional memberships
  • Modern and spacious discounted live in accommodation for eligible roles
  • Access to hundreds of exclusive employee benefits, rewards and discounts targeted specifically at the hospitality sector. We support our employees do more with their money and help their wellbeing be providing access to a wide range of stand out well being support.
  • We celebrate success. With an annual awards ceremony as well team events and incentives. Throughout the year we also celebrate training achievements, birthdays, marriages, new babies and length of service awards.
  • Employee Assistance Programme helpline and online support, along with wellbeing champions onsite
  • Team Member of the Month Awards
  • Discount on Grantley Halls Restaurants, Spa products and Gift Shop
  • Discounted stays at Grantley Hall, as well as other Pride of Britain Hotels
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Access to Wagestream, allowing you to instantly access your wages
  • Simplyhealth – Health cash plan

Head Gardener - Harrogate employer: Grantley Hall

Grantley Hall is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a stunning five-star environment surrounded by the picturesque North Yorkshire countryside. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive benefits including tips, complimentary meals, and a state-of-the-art gym, as well as a supportive and collaborative work culture, we ensure our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Join us in creating beautiful outdoor spaces while being part of a prestigious hotel that celebrates success and prioritises employee wellbeing.
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Contact Detail:

Grantley Hall Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Gardener - Harrogate

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Grantley Hall's unique offerings and luxury standards. Understanding the hotel's ethos will help you align your vision for the gardens with their expectations, making you a more appealing candidate.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the luxury hospitality sector. Attend gardening or hospitality events where you can meet people who might have insights into the role or even connections at Grantley Hall.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you manage a team effectively. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've inspired and developed your team in previous roles.

✨Tip Number 4

Showcase your passion for creating beautiful outdoor spaces by sharing your ideas for potential improvements at Grantley Hall. This proactive approach can set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener - Harrogate

Leadership Skills
Team Management
Task Planning and Delegation
Collaboration with Facilities Management
Exceptional Attention to Detail
Garden Design and Maintenance
Budget Management
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Time Management
Knowledge of Horticulture
RHS Level 3 Qualification
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Positive Attitude and Willingness to Learn

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in gardening and leadership. Emphasise any previous roles where you managed a team or worked in a luxury environment, as this is crucial for the Head Gardener position.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gardening and your ability to maintain high standards. Mention specific achievements in previous roles that demonstrate your leadership skills and attention to detail.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have an RHS Level 3 qualification or similar credentials, make sure to mention these prominently in your application. This will show that you have the necessary expertise for the role.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated with teams or clients in the past. This could be through meetings, emails, or collaborative projects.

How to prepare for a job interview at Grantley Hall

✨Show Your Leadership Skills

As a Head Gardener, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed a team in the past. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate others.

✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Gardening

Express your enthusiasm for creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces. Share personal experiences or projects that showcase your dedication to gardening and how you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in horticulture.

✨Prepare for Budget Management Questions

Since managing the garden budget is a key responsibility, be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting and financial management. Provide examples of how you've effectively allocated resources and managed costs in previous roles.

✨Emphasise Communication Skills

Excellent communication is crucial in this role, especially when collaborating with the executive team and representing your gardening team. Prepare to discuss how you handle communication in a team setting and any strategies you use to ensure clarity and collaboration.

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