At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop stunning gardens on a beautiful country estate.
- Company: Thimbleby Hall, a picturesque estate in North Yorkshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, accommodation available, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with a supportive team and enjoy a dynamic working environment.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make a real impact on breathtaking landscapes.
- Qualifications: A Level 3 horticultural qualification preferred and strong plantsmanship skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 54000 £ per year.
A rare opportunity to lead and develop 16 acres of mature, compartmentalised gardens on a 3,300-acre country estate on the western edge of the North York Moors National Park. Designed by Balston Agius and established from 2013, the gardens encompass terraced gardens with streams, a lake and waterfalls, an orchard, vegetable and cut-flower garden, Japanese streamside garden, wildflower meadow, rose, cottage and courtyard gardens, all set within sweeping parkland and ancient woodland.
A new glasshouse is soon to be installed, complementing an established nursery with greenhouse and poly tunnels. The gardens have previously opened under the National Gardens Scheme. The structure is in place and the spaces have matured; what we now seek is a talented, hands-on head gardener to refine the presentation and drive the next phase of development.
You will lead a team of three skilled under-gardeners (supported by robotic mowing), plan and deliver your own schedules, and work closely with the family on their short- and long-term vision. The wider estate, which employs around 35 staff across farming, gamekeeping and estate maintenance, offers additional skills, labour and machinery. The garden team contributes produce and services to the estate's shooting ground, village store and holiday properties.
We are looking for a tried-and-tested gardener with excellent plantsmanship, strong interpersonal skills and a genuine 'can-do' attitude, with the integrity and judgement to lead a team and develop it to play to each member's strengths. A Level 3 horticultural qualification (or similar) is preferred. The owners are committed to investing in the garden and supporting the team, with a good ongoing training regime (spraying, chainsaw, Loadall tickets, etc.).
To apply, please send a letter of introduction and your current CV to our recruitment consultant, Michael Walker, at nationalgardensspecialist@gmail.com.
Head Gardener. Thimbleby Hall, North Yorkshire employer: National Gardens Specialist
Thimbleby Hall offers an exceptional opportunity for a Head Gardener to lead the development of its stunning 16 acres of gardens within a picturesque 3,300-acre estate in North Yorkshire. With a commitment to employee growth through ongoing training and a supportive work culture, you will thrive in a collaborative environment that values your expertise and creativity. The estate's unique setting, combined with a dedicated team and resources, makes it an ideal place for passionate horticulturists seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
Contact Details:
National Gardens Specialist Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Gardener. Thimbleby Hall, North Yorkshire
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the estate! Before your interview, take some time to research Thimbleby Hall and its gardens. Understanding the history and vision behind the gardens will help you connect with the family and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring along a portfolio of your previous gardening projects or any relevant achievements. This is your chance to visually demonstrate your plantsmanship and leadership abilities, so make it count!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about teamwork! Since you'll be leading a team of under-gardeners, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your interpersonal skills and how you can bring out the best in your team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! While sending your CV and letter of introduction is essential, don’t forget to check if there’s an option to apply directly through our site. It shows initiative and keeps everything organised on our end!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Gardener. Thimbleby Hall, North Yorkshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Personal Introduction:Start your application with a warm and engaging letter of introduction. This is your chance to show us who you are beyond your CV, so let your passion for gardening shine through!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Head Gardener role. We want to see how your background fits with our vision for the gardens at Thimbleby Hall.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; give us examples of your plantsmanship and leadership experience. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and develop the garden, so share your successes!
Apply Through Our Website:While we’ve provided an email for applications, we encourage you to apply through our website if possible. It helps us keep everything organised and makes it easier for you to track your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Gardens Specialist
✨Know Your Gardens
Before the interview, take some time to research Thimbleby Hall and its gardens. Familiarise yourself with the different areas mentioned in the job description, like the terraced gardens and the Japanese streamside garden. This will show your genuine interest and help you discuss how you can contribute to their development.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to talk about your hands-on gardening experience and any specific projects you've led. Highlight your plantsmanship and how you've successfully managed a team in the past. Be ready to share examples of how you've refined garden presentations or developed new areas, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership
Since you'll be leading a team of under-gardeners, it's crucial to demonstrate your interpersonal skills. Think of examples where you've motivated a team or resolved conflicts. Discuss how you plan to play to each member's strengths, as this will resonate well with the owners' vision for the garden team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the long-term vision for the gardens or how they envision the new glasshouse being integrated into the existing setup. This shows that you're not just interested in the role but also invested in the future of the estate.
