At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the day-to-day running of a site, ensuring a positive experience for trainees.
- Company: Join Sunnyside Rural Trust, a charity dedicated to empowering individuals with learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a supportive environment while making a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible hours and opportunities for professional development in horticulture.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values inclusivity and personal growth.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths; strong admin and IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We are looking for two Deputy Site Managers to join Sunnyside Rural Trust, one based at Hemel Food Garden in Hemel Hempstead, and one based at The Orchard Nursery in Bedmond, near Kings Langley.
Apply below after reading through all the details and supporting information regarding this job opportunity.
Both sites support young people and adults with learning disabilities and other vulnerable needs through meaningful training, horticulture, work experience and social enterprise opportunities.
Working closely with the relevant site lead, the Deputy Site Manager will help ensure the smooth and effective day-to-day running of the site.
The role combines operational leadership, administration, horticultural and commercial coordination, team support and person-centred support for trainees.
The post holder will help create a positive, progressive and inclusive trainee experience, while ensuring the site is safe, well organised and delivers a high-quality service in line with Sunnyside Rural Trust values.
- The Two Roles
- Hemel Food Garden - Hemel Hempstead
Hemel Food Garden is a busy, multi-use site.
Alongside trainee support and horticultural activity, the Deputy Site Manager will have a strong focus on administration and systems, including stock and pricing information, plant deliveries and transfers, off-site gardening contracts, scheduling, retail operations, and supporting the café and farm shop.
The Orchard Nursery - Bedmond, near Kings Langley
The Orchard Nursery is a smaller, unique horticultural site.
The Deputy Site Manager will support the day-to-day running of the nursery, trainee support, plant production and sales, off-site gardening activity, and the delivery of engaging horticultural activities and small-group courses.
The role also involves working positively with the Serge Hill Project and other partners.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Operational Support
- Support for Adults with Learning Disabilities
- Administration and Systems
- Horticultural and Commercial Operations
- Team Support and Development
- Health, Safety and Site Management
- Partnership and Community Working
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience
- GCSE English and Mathematics, or equivalent.
- Strong administrative, organisational and IT skills, including confidence using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.
- Good understanding of supporting adults with learning disabilities or vulnerable groups, including safeguarding and person-centred practice.
- Knowledge of horticulture, plant retail or land-based environments.
- Experience working with adults with learning disabilities or vulnerable people.
- Experience coordinating schedules, rotas or operational systems and responding to customers or enquiries.
- Experience supporting staff or volunteers.
- Ability to work effectively in a busy operational environment and manage competing priorities.
Additional requirement for The Orchard Nursery role
A minimum of two years' horticultural experience, with RHS Level 2 qualification or working towards it.
Desirable Experience
- Experience of horticulture, plant retail, stock management systems or stock transfers.
- Experience supporting off-site contracts or service delivery.
- Experience within the charity, care or social enterprise sector.
- Experience using databases and other operational systems.
Essential Skills and Personal Qualities
- Excellent organisational, practical and administrative skills with strong attention to detail.
- Clear and confident communication with a wide range of people.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm and organised.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
- Compassionate, values-driven and committed to inclusive, person-centred practice.
- Reliable, approachable, positive, solution focused and willing to be hands-on.
- Collaborative and committed to improving opportunities for vulnerable people.
Other Requirements
- Full UK manual driving licence and willingness to drive work vehicles.
- Flexibility to work occasional weekends or evenings where required.
- Ability and willingness to work across different Sunnyside Rural Trust sites where necessary.
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The post holder will promote a respectful, inclusive and culturally sensitive approach in all aspects of work, in line with the charity's values and policies.
General
This job description outlines the main responsibilities of the role and is not exhaustive.
The post holder may be required to undertake other duties consistent with the nature of the position. xiskglj
Please click apply and you will be redirect to our careers page where you can submit your
Cover Letter and download our Application Form.
Deputy Site Manager in Abbots Langley employer: Sunnyside Rural Trust
Sunnyside Rural Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong focus on personal and professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people and adults with learning disabilities. Located in the picturesque settings of Hemel Hempstead and Bedmond, the organisation offers unique opportunities to engage in horticulture and community support, all within a compassionate and values-driven culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Site Manager in Abbots Langley
✨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 Sunnyside Rural Trust.
✨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 Sunnyside Rural Trust.
✨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 Sunnyside Rural Trust; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Site Manager in Abbots Langley
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 Sunnyside Rural Trust.
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 Deputy Site Manager.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Sunnyside Rural Trust 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 Sunnyside Rural Trust a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sunnyside Rural Trust
✨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 Sunnyside Rural Trust might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
