At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to enhance visitor experiences in a historic landscape garden.
- Company: Painshill, a celebrated Grade I listed garden with a rich history.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape a world-class heritage destination and engage with diverse audiences.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to conservation and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on heritage and culture for future generations.
- Qualifications: Strategic leader with passion for heritage, culture, and commercial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
An opportunity to lead a living masterpiece. Step into a role where art, nature and history converge. Painshill is much more than a historic landscape. It is a Grade I listed garden, an internationally celebrated masterpiece of the eighteenth century - an immersive “living painting” created by the visionary Hon. Charles Hamilton. Set across 160 acres, Painshill welcomes circa 180,000 visitors a year to walk the work of art and immerse themselves in the history of the landscape. With King Charles III as Patron, and a legacy shaped by over 40 years of careful restoration of this once lost garden, this is a place of both national significance and global admiration.
Now, we are seeking an exceptional Director to lead Painshill into its next chapter. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of the United Kingdom’s most remarkable landscape gardens. Working in close partnership with the Board of Trustees, you will safeguard Hamilton’s vision while driving a forward-thinking strategy, elevating Painshill’s profile as a world-class heritage destination and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
You will lead across every aspect of the organisation:
- Inspiring a dedicated team of staff and volunteers;
- Enhancing visitor experience throughout the landscape garden;
- Growing income through membership, fundraising, partnerships and commercial activity, to sustain both public engagement and conservation;
- Opening up the transformative power of this extraordinary landscape to wider audiences for generations to come.
From education programmes and community engagement to events, retail and filming, you will harness every opportunity to broaden Painshill’s reach and impact.
We are looking for a strategic, inclusive, and enterprising leader - someone who combines commercial acumen with a genuine passion for heritage, culture, landscapes, horticulture - bringing credibility and the ability to inspire others around a shared purpose.
If you are ready to protect, champion and reimagine an extraordinary place for future generations, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Applications can be submitted via Perrett Laver Vacancies quoting reference 8439 and should comprise a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and person specification. The deadline for applications is 9am BST on Sunday 7th June 2026.
Director in Surrey employer: PAINSHILL PARK TRUST
At Painshill, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values creativity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to heritage. Our inclusive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering unique opportunities to engage with art and nature while leading a passionate team dedicated to preserving this iconic landscape. Join us in shaping the future of one of the UK's most remarkable gardens, where your leadership will inspire generations to connect with history and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the heritage and cultural sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for landscapes and history. You never know who might have a lead on your dream role!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your vision! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas on how to elevate Painshill’s profile. Be bold and demonstrate your strategic thinking – they want to see how you can shape the future of this incredible garden.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Painshill’s history and current initiatives. Understand their challenges and think about how you can contribute to their mission. This will show that you’re not just interested in the title but genuinely care about the organisation.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference at Painshill.
We think you need these skills to ace Director in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director at Painshill. Highlight your experience in heritage, culture, and leadership, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for landscapes and heritage, and explain how your vision aligns with Painshill’s mission. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:As a Director, strategic thinking is key. In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to drive forward-thinking strategies at Painshill.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the role or application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at PAINSHILL PARK TRUST
✨Know Your Landscape
Before stepping into the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of Painshill's history and its significance as a Grade I listed garden. Familiarise yourself with Charles Hamilton's vision and how it has evolved over the years. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for heritage and culture.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director, you'll be expected to inspire and lead a diverse team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in engaging volunteers and enhancing visitor experiences. Highlight your strategic thinking and how you plan to elevate Painshill’s profile while ensuring sustainability.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your commitment to community engagement by discussing any previous initiatives you've led or been part of. Think about how you can broaden Painshill's reach and impact through education programmes and partnerships. Showing that you value public engagement will resonate well with the interview panel.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about Painshill's future direction and the Board's expectations. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if this is the right fit for you. Ask about their vision for the next chapter and how they see the role of the Director evolving.
