At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support a passionate gardening team on a prestigious estate.
- Company: Join a beautiful estate in Epsom, Surrey with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 28 days holiday, and ongoing training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in horticulture while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: RHS Level 3 or equivalent and strong plant knowledge required.
- Other info: Work in a stunning environment with clear career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36209 - 40300 Β£ per year.
The Opportunity
We are currently recruiting for a Deputy Head Gardener based on a prestigious estate in Epsom, Surrey. This is a full time permanent position with a salary of Β£36,209 per year. Working hours are Monday to Friday, 06:00 to 14:30, with 1 in 6 weekends worked, for which a day in lieu is provided. The start date is ASAP. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced and motivated horticultural professional to step into a senior role within an established gardens team. Working closely with the Head Gardener, you will support the day to day management, development, and long term planning of the gardens, while maintaining the highest horticultural standards. The role combines hands on gardening with leadership, planning, and administrative responsibility, offering clear scope for progression.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Head Gardener with daily operations, work planning, and plant procurement
- Support the ongoing training, mentoring, and development of the Gardening Team
- Maintain accurate records of mandatory and relevant training to ensure compliance
- Take responsibility for the Gardens Department in the absence of the Head Gardener
- Manage and actively participate in garden projects and improvement works
- Ensure all planting schemes are maintained to the highest horticultural standards
- Assist with the weekend rota and provide cover as required
- Uphold Health and Safety policies and ensure compliance across the Gardens Team
- Ensure all machinery, equipment, and vehicles are tested, serviced, and compliant
- Promote sustainable practices and efficient use of resources to reduce environmental impact
- Assist with the maintenance and development of the Kitchen Garden
- Support members' garden visits, activity groups, and horticultural enquiries
- Foster collaboration across departments to improve communication and teamwork
- Deliver a consistently high standard of customer service within the Gardens Team
Requirements
- Full UK driving licence and own transport essential due to location
- RHS Level 3 or equivalent horticultural qualification
- Strong plant knowledge supported by practical horticultural experience
- Confident use of a wide range of garden machinery and utility vehicles
- PA1 and PA6 spraying certificates required
- Chainsaw qualification preferred
- Previous experience in garden management, hard landscaping, or senior horticultural roles
- Excellent organisational and IT skills for planning and record keeping
- Knowledge of local horticultural suppliers advantageous
- Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills
- Positive, proactive attitude with a commitment to high standards and sustainability
Skills and Qualities
- High level horticultural knowledge and practical competence
- Confident supporting and leading a professional gardening team
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to plan, prioritise, and manage workloads effectively
- Professional approach with excellent interpersonal skills
- Commitment to sustainability, safety, and continuous improvement
Whatβs On Offer
- Salary of Β£36,209 per year
- Full time permanent role
- Working hours Monday to Friday, 06:00 to 14:30
- 1 in 6 weekends worked, with a day in lieu provided
- 28 days' holiday including bank holidays, plus your birthday
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
- Supportive working environment within a beautiful and well established estate
How to Apply
This role is being recruited by Halmer Group on behalf of our client. To be considered, please submit your CV along with a brief covering note outlining your experience, qualifications, and suitability for this Deputy Head Gardener position. All applications will be treated in strict confidence.
Deputy Head Gardener Epsom Surrey Full Time Prestigious Estate employer: Halmer Recruit
Contact Detail:
Halmer Recruit Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head Gardener Epsom Surrey Full Time Prestigious Estate
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the estate! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the gardens and the team. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you tailor your answers to what they value.
β¨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along examples of your previous work or projects you've managed. Whether it's photos or records, tangible evidence of your horticultural prowess can really impress.
β¨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about sustainability! Given the emphasis on eco-friendly practices, have some ideas or experiences ready to discuss how you can contribute to their green initiatives.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to follow up! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you note. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head Gardener Epsom Surrey Full Time Prestigious Estate
Some tips for your application π«‘
Craft a Compelling CV: Make sure your CV highlights your horticultural qualifications and experience. We want to see your strong plant knowledge and any relevant certifications, like RHS Level 3 or spraying certificates. Tailor it to show how you can support the Head Gardener and lead the team!
Write a Personal Covering Note: Your covering note is your chance to shine! Keep it brief but impactful. Tell us about your experience, why you're passionate about gardening, and how you can contribute to maintaining the highest horticultural standards on our prestigious estate.
Show Off Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves supporting and leading a team, make sure to highlight any previous management experience. Share examples of how you've mentored others or led projects in your application. We love a proactive attitude!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! Itβs the best way for us to receive your details and ensures everything is in order. We can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Halmer Recruit
β¨Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific plants, their care, and any relevant horticultural techniques you've used. This shows your passion and expertise in the field.
β¨Show Leadership Skills
Since this role involves supporting the Head Gardener and leading a team, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed or mentored others in previous positions. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and improve teamwork.
β¨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Be prepared to talk about how you manage workloads and keep accurate records. Discuss any systems or tools you use for planning and record-keeping, as this is crucial for the role.
β¨Emphasise Sustainability
Given the focus on sustainable practices, think about how you've implemented eco-friendly methods in your gardening work. Share specific examples that demonstrate your commitment to reducing environmental impact.