At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to maintain and enhance the beautiful Queen's Park.
- Company: Join the UK's largest grounds maintenance provider with a rich history since 1919.
- Benefits: Enjoy 21 days holiday, discounts, and a supportive benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your horticultural skills.
- Qualifications: Must have good horticultural knowledge, NVQ Level 3, and a clean UK driving license.
- Other info: Work in an award-winning park and be part of a passionate team.
Hourly Rate: £12. Contract type: Permanent. Monday - Thursday 07:30-16:00, Friday 07:30-12:30.
We currently require an experienced Head Gardener to work in Queen's Park; a historic, award-winning and beautifully maintained park in the heart of Loughborough's town centre. Queen's Park is a much-loved local park and has achieved a Green Flag award every year since 2008, a mark of excellence awarded to parks and green spaces.
The Head Gardener will provide their own grounds maintenance services in the park, as well as oversee a supplement team of gardeners, ensuring proper horticultural practices are followed and grounds maintenance work is undertaken to the highest of standards.
- Good horticultural knowledge.
- A full, clean UK driving license.
- NVQ Level 3.
As the UK's leading grounds maintenance and landscape creation provider, no two projects are ever the same - and neither are our people. We offer career advancement and development opportunities through our bespoke apprenticeship programmes, our extensive in-house training academy, and coaching and mentorship.
Contribute to projects that make a real difference in the community and environment. We recognise and reward your hard work with our wide-ranging benefits package designed to prioritise your well-being, support life choices, and help in both good and challenging times.
- 21 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Enhanced maternity and shared parental leave.
- Discounts on retail, holidays, gym memberships, and more.
- Colleague of the month and annual awards.
We are Europe's largest provider of grounds maintenance services and landscape creation, in the UK alone we're a community of over 3,000 passionate colleagues shaping the future of the green industry. Our history dates back to 1919, and today, with a turnover of £250 million, we're more than just a company - we're a force for positive change.
Head Gardener (Contract) employer: Idverde
Contact Detail:
Idverde Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener (Contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Queen's Park and its horticultural practices. Understanding the specific plants, maintenance routines, and community involvement will show your genuine interest in the role and the park.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with local gardening communities or professionals. Engaging with others in the field can provide insights into the role and may even lead to recommendations that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous gardening experiences in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've managed, particularly those that demonstrate your leadership skills and horticultural knowledge.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for sustainability and community engagement. Highlight any initiatives you've been involved in that align with the values of maintaining green spaces and contributing positively to the environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener (Contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements for the Head Gardener position. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your horticultural knowledge and any previous experience in grounds maintenance. Include details about your NVQ Level 3 qualification and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for gardening and community involvement. Mention your understanding of the Green Flag award and how you can contribute to maintaining the park's standards.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure all information is accurate and presented professionally.
How to prepare for a job interview at Idverde
✨Showcase Your Horticultural Knowledge
Make sure to brush up on your horticultural practices and be ready to discuss specific plants, maintenance techniques, and any relevant certifications you hold. This will demonstrate your expertise and passion for gardening.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
As a Head Gardener, you'll be overseeing a team. Be prepared to share examples of your leadership style, how you've managed teams in the past, and any successful projects you've led. This will show that you're capable of guiding others effectively.
✨Discuss Community Impact
Since the role involves contributing to community projects, think about how your work can positively affect the local environment. Share any previous experiences where your gardening efforts made a difference in the community.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the park's current projects, the team you'll be working with, and the company's vision for the future. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.