At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Buyer, curating unique plant collections and gardening essentials.
- Company: Be part of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, wellness support, and discounts on gyms and museums.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in protecting plants and fungi while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying and a passion for plants are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the team at Kew Wakehurst as a Buyer for our Plant Centre. The Plant Centre provides a selection of specific outdoor plant collections based on a carefully curated range reflected in our phytogeographically laid out botanic garden alongside a focussed seasonal commercial offer. In addition, this enticing and welcoming space also offers indoor plants, complimentary gardening essentials and horticultural gifts.
We are looking for an experienced, focussed, and dedicated individual who shares our passion for plants and who would like to join us in the on-going development of the Plant Centre where we continue to work in building a reputation for uniqueness, quality and excellence that has established Wakehurst as a destination retailer in Sussex.
This role is based at Wakehurst with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve.
As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone. Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.
Plant Centre Buyer employer: Prospect Us
At Kew Wakehurst, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion. As a Buyer for our Plant Centre, you will enjoy a generous benefits package, including flexible working options, continuous learning opportunities, and access to our stunning gardens, all while contributing to our mission of protecting the world's plants and fungi. Join us in creating a unique retail experience in Sussex, where your passion for horticulture can flourish alongside your professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Plant Centre Buyer
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like Prospect Us.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like Prospect Us.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at Prospect Us; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Plant Centre Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at Prospect Us.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Plant Centre Buyer.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Prospect Us is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at Prospect Us a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospect Us
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at Prospect Us might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
