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- Tasks: Join the Board to shape the future of UK horticulture and support industry growth.
- Company: Horticultural Trades Association, a leading voice in environmental horticulture.
- Benefits: Network with industry leaders, gain governance insights, and make a real impact.
- Other info: Voluntary role with expenses covered; open to diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant sector and help drive sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in governance or leadership; passion for horticulture is key.
Join the Board of the Horticultural Trades Association as a Non-Executive Director.
Role: Non-Executive Director
Term: 3 years (with potential for renewal)
Status: Voluntary (unpaid) – expenses reimbursed
Location: UK-wide – Board meetings held in various locations
Are you passionate about the future of UK horticulture and are employed by an organisation with HTA membership? Do you want to help shape the strategy of a sector-leading organisation at the heart of environmental horticulture and garden retail industries? The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) is seeking Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to join our Board and contribute their insight, experience, and strategic judgement to support our mission: to promote, support, and nurture our industry to ensure a robust and sustainable future.
About the HTA
This is a hugely exciting time for the sector and for the HTA. Gardens and managed green spaces and landscapes have never been more important to the UK – for the economy, for the environment and for the nation’s well-being. The HTA has 1,350 members, including garden retailers, growers, landscapers, and suppliers to the garden industry. The HTA lobbies and campaigns for its members within the horticulture industry and has an excellent reputation. We provide our members with the opportunity to learn, innovate, and network with others in the industry. We have an effective political lobbying team working to enable the best conditions for our members to flourish across the UK and our research and insights team provide impactful data to help our members run productive and resilient businesses.
Our culture
Our culture is built on our values of being Member Focused, Collaborative & Inclusive, Trusted, and Innovative. We put our members at the heart of everything we do, ensuring their needs and aspirations guide our decisions and actions. We foster a collaborative and inclusive environment where every team member’s voice is valued, and diverse perspectives drive creativity and success. Trust is central to our relationships, both internally and externally, and we are committed to acting with integrity and transparency in all that we do. We embrace innovation, continuously seeking new ways to improve and push boundaries, ensuring that we stay ahead of the curve in delivering exceptional service and results.
About the Role
As a Non-Executive Director, you’ll play a critical role in overseeing the governance and strategic direction of the HTA. You’ll bring an independent perspective to Board discussions, act as a champion for our members, and support our Executive Team in delivering long-term value to the industry. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a vibrant, future-focused sector while working alongside passionate leaders from across horticulture, business, and governance.
What you will bring
- In line with our governance requirements, this year’s Non-Executive Director appointments are open only to candidates who are employed by an organisation that holds active HTA membership.
- Candidates must hold, and continue to hold, active HTA membership for the duration of their term as a Non-Executive Director.
- We’re looking for candidates connected to the HTA who:
- Have Board-level or senior leadership experience and are familiar with governance, strategy, or organisational oversight
- Have a good understanding of the issues facing the horticultural sector—or a genuine interest in learning
- Bring expertise from one or more of the following areas:
- Commercial horticulture, garden retail, or landscape services
- Finance, audit, or investment
- IT systems and emerging technologies
- Membership organisations or trade associations
- Governance and legal compliance
What you’ll gain
- The chance to help steer the UK’s horticultural trade association to benefit all its members
- Opportunities to connect and build relationships with a diverse network of leaders and businesses
- Non-executive director training run by an accredited body. Insight into governance and strategy at a national level
- The satisfaction of giving back to an industry you care about
We actively welcome and encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds and sectors of the industry. No formal qualifications are required – we value passion, integrity, and real-world experience.
How to apply
To apply for this role, please send your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to recruitment@hta.org.uk. The deadline for applications is 5pm Friday 29 May 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged. We’re happy to have an informal conversation if you’d like to explore the role before applying. Be part of the future of UK horticulture. Join us and make a difference.
The HTA is committed to embedding diversity, equity and inclusion into our culture and our talent processes. We believe in creating a workplace where our people are treated with dignity and respect, a workplace free of barriers or discrimination. We will make accommodations upon request for candidates wherever needed and practical throughout the hiring process.
Non-Executive Director employer: Horticultural Trades Association
Contact Detail:
Horticultural Trades Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Non-Executive Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the horticulture sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a Non-Executive Director role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved with HTA events or forums. This is a great way to meet key players in the industry, showcase your passion for horticulture, and demonstrate your commitment to the sector. Plus, it’s a fab chance to learn more about the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your governance knowledge and strategic thinking skills. Think about how your experience aligns with the HTA's mission and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a valuable asset!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. Let’s get you on that board!
We think you need these skills to ace Non-Executive Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for horticulture shine through! We want to see how much you care about the industry and how you can contribute to its future.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and skills that align with the role. We’re looking for candidates with board-level or senior leadership experience, so don’t hold back on showcasing that!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the Non-Executive Director role. Be clear about your interest in the HTA and how your background can help shape our strategy.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We review applications on a rolling basis, so getting yours in early could give you an edge. Head over to our website to apply!
How to prepare for a job interview at Horticultural Trades Association
✨Know Your Horticulture
Make sure you brush up on the current trends and challenges in the horticultural sector. Being able to discuss these topics will show your genuine interest and understanding of the industry, which is crucial for a Non-Executive Director role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully contributed to governance or strategic decisions. This will help demonstrate your ability to think critically and provide valuable insights during board discussions.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the HTA values a collaborative approach, be ready to share instances where you've worked effectively with diverse teams. Highlight how you’ve navigated differing opinions to achieve common goals, as this will resonate well with their culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the HTA's future direction and member engagement strategies. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your commitment to understanding how you can contribute to their mission.