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- Tasks: Lead a team to maintain and develop stunning gardens in a picturesque setting.
- Company: Join a dedicated team focused on horticulture in beautiful Bury St Edmunds.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a 9% pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a beautiful landscape while working outdoors and leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: RHS Level 2 or equivalent, team management experience, and practical gardening skills required.
- Other info: Flexibility for some evening and weekend work is needed.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Head Gardener – Full Time 📍 Location: Bury St Edmunds 🕒 Annualised Hours: 37 hours/week (including some evenings & weekends) Are you passionate about horticulture and ready to lead a dedicated team in one of Suffolk\’s most picturesque settings? We\’re seeking a skilled and motivated Head Gardener to take charge of our grounds and gardens, bringing vision, expertise, and leadership to a thriving outdoor environment. 🌱 About the Role As Head Gardener, you\’ll be responsible for: Leading and managing a team of 6 direct reports. Interpreting and executing planting and horticultural plans Overseeing the maintenance and development of diverse garden areas Ensuring high standards of presentation and plant health across all seasons Coordinating work schedules, training, and performance reviews🌼 What We\’re Looking For Required Qualifications and experience: A solid foundation in horticulture, with RHS Level 2 or equivalent Ideally, PA1/PA6 spraying certification Proven experience in team management and garden planning Strong practical skills and a keen eye for detail Flexibility to work some weekends and evenings as required🎁 What We Offer Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays A generous 9% contributory pension scheme Opportunities for professional development and training A chance to shape and nurture a beautiful landscapeReady to plant the seeds of your next career move? Apply now and grow with us in Bury St Edmunds. What you need to do now If you\’re interested in this role, click \’apply now\’ to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn\’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays EA is a trading division of Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C\’s, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)
Head Gardener employer: Hays Construction and Property
Contact Detail:
Hays Construction and Property Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific horticultural practices and plant species relevant to the gardens in Bury St Edmunds. This knowledge will not only help you stand out during discussions but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. Be ready to discuss your approach to training and performance reviews, as this is a key aspect of the Head Gardener position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with local horticultural groups or attend gardening events in Suffolk. Building connections within the community can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to recommendations for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the garden's current projects and future plans. This shows your proactive attitude and eagerness to contribute to the team's vision, making a positive impression during any interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Head Gardener position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experience.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your horticultural background, team management skills, and any certifications like RHS Level 2 or PA1/PA6. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since the role involves managing a team, make sure to include instances where you've successfully led a team or project. This could be through training, performance reviews, or executing garden plans.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for horticulture and your vision for the gardens. Mention how your skills align with the company's goals and your enthusiasm for contributing to their landscape.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Construction and Property
✨Show Your Passion for Horticulture
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for gardening and horticulture during the interview. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or plants you've cultivated that demonstrate your love for the field.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Gardener, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your experience in team management, including how you motivate and train your team members. Highlight any successful projects where your leadership made a difference.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about horticultural practices, plant health, and garden planning. Brush up on your knowledge of RHS Level 2 standards and be ready to discuss how you would implement these in the role.
✨Discuss Flexibility and Availability
Since the role requires some evening and weekend work, be honest about your availability. Show that you're willing to adapt your schedule to meet the needs of the gardens and the team.