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- Tasks: Lead a small team to manage and maintain our vibrant Kitchen Garden.
- Company: Join THE PIG, where we celebrate home-grown produce and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy free staff stays, discounts, and access to wellness services.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team creating seasonal menus and engaging with guests.
- Qualifications: RHS Level 2 is preferred, but experience and enthusiasm are key.
- Other info: Animal husbandry experience is a plus; training support available.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 33610 £ per year.
Earnings: £31,000 depending on experience. OTE £33,610, including tronc.
At THE PIG, it all starts in the kitchen garden – the team here are the original Home-Grown Heroes of everything we do. As Head Kitchen Gardener at THE PIG - in the South Downs, you will be managing a small team, overseeing a productive upkeep and beautiful presentation of the Kitchen Garden.
You will be instrumental in ensuring a diverse produce is harvested 365 days a year, rain or shine. A strong interest in food and flavours will support your work closely with the Head Chef and Group Head Kitchen Gardener to contribute to our seasonal 25 miles menu in the Restaurant.
Strong organisational skills are essential to develop an annual harvest plan, complete weekly tasks, and manage our greenhouse, fruit cage, polytunnel, and mushroom house. Our Kitchen Gardens are organically managed, applying creative pest and disease control methods to ensure quality produce.
You will be the face of our Kitchen Garden, engaging with guests during grounds tours, demonstrating knowledge and passion for our freshly grown, sustainable produce. Some animal husbandry will also be required, as we are home to pigs, chickens, sheep, and quails.
It is desirable to have your Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Level 2 qualification; however, with the right experience and passion, we can support further training.
We are dedicated to making THE PIGs an inspiring, exciting, and fun place to work. In return, you can expect some unique benefits:
- Staff stays – free B&B.
- 35% discount on food, beverages & treatments.
- Annual holiday increase (up to 33 days).
- Take-home goods at cost price.
- Free access for you and your family to an on-demand GP, Physiotherapy, and counselling services through Help@Hand.
- A range of learning & development courses.
- Anniversary vouchers – dinner with wine for 2.
Home Grown Hotels is committed to encouraging equality, diversity, and inclusion. We are an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against candidates based on any of the protected characteristics set out in the Equalities Act 2010.
Head Kitchen Gardener employer: THE PIG
Contact Detail:
THE PIG Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Kitchen Gardener
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of organic gardening and sustainable practices. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the values that THE PIG stands for.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the local gardening community or online forums to expand your network. Building connections with other gardeners can provide insights and tips that may be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with team management and how you’ve successfully led projects in the past. Highlighting your leadership skills will be crucial, as you'll be managing a small team in this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for food and flavours by researching seasonal produce and how it impacts menu planning. Being able to speak knowledgeably about this will impress the hiring team and show your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Kitchen Gardener
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head Kitchen Gardener position. Highlight your relevant experience in managing kitchen gardens and working with seasonal produce.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your skills and experiences that align with the job. Emphasise your organisational skills, knowledge of organic gardening, and any relevant qualifications like the RHS Level 2.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainable gardening and food. Mention your experience in engaging with guests and your ability to work closely with chefs to enhance the menu.
Showcase Your Passion: In your application, express your enthusiasm for the role and the values of THE PIG. Share any personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to organic gardening and sustainable practices.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE PIG
✨Show Your Passion for Gardening
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for gardening and sustainable produce during the interview. Share personal experiences or projects that highlight your dedication to organic practices and your understanding of seasonal produce.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head Kitchen Gardener, you'll be managing a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past, especially in a gardening or agricultural context.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your knowledge of pest control methods, crop rotation, and greenhouse management. Brush up on these topics and be ready to discuss how you would implement them in the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Since you'll be the face of the Kitchen Garden, practice engaging with your interviewers as if they were guests. Show your ability to communicate effectively and share your knowledge in an approachable manner.
