On behalf of our client, we are recruiting for a Head Gardener to maintain a large private garden in Egham, Surrey.
The gardens consist of formal planting immediately adjacent to the garden house, ornamental planting throughout extensive grounds, a vegetable garden, areas of wildflower and large expanses of both formal and rolling lawns. There are also many ornamental and parkland trees, a tennis court and horse paddock.
Having recently undergone a total overhaul of planting schemes and layout, the gardens will require a skilled and knowledgeable professional Head Gardener, who is experienced working in a sensitive environment and for UHNW clientele.
The Head Gardener will be responsible for their continued meticulous maintenance and development, taking ownership of any issues and ensuring to plan ahead - while working closely with the estate to deliver a garden worthy of its calibre.
Summary of responsibilities and duties:
* Deliver high standards of maintenance and horticulture by developing and implementing a structured programme of work, ensuring the landscape and gardens are maintained and presented to the highest level throughout the year.
* Effectively manage the garden team and provide detailed weekly work reports.
* Liaise with Estate Management to manage and interpret the horticultural needs of each area through plans and schedules for the various zones of the gardens.
* Liaising with security, housekeeping staff and other contractors.
* Manage your time to record and request orders for tools, plant and other necessary equipment and materials including seasonal planting and mulching.
* Ensure all garden equipment and tools are correctly used, maintained and kept in proper working order.
* Ensure the irrigation system is correctly maintained and kept in proper working order.
* Implement safety policies and procedures.
* Manage threats and risks from Pests & Diseases.
Required qualifications:
* Relevant horticultural qualification, preferably Level 3 or above.
* Health and safety qualification, e.g. NEBOSH General, or relevant professional qualification.
* Experience managing sites and supervising teams, SSSTS/SMSTS etc.
* Advanced level of irrigation knowledge and spraying certificate PA1/PA6.
* Up-to-date working knowledge of methods, materials, tools and equipment used in garden maintenance operations.
* Sound knowledge of standard horticultural practices (planting, pruning, fertilising, etc.), growth characteristics and identification of a wide variety of plants.
Required skills:
* Prior experience in a horticulture role for UHNW clients.
* Full clean EU or UK driving licence.
* Excellent oral and written communication skills.
* Excellent organisation and team management skills.
* Good time management – ability to prioritise tasks; punctuality; working efficiently and with a good idea of how long each task takes to complete.
* Problem solver - ability to identify and resolve issues with speed.
* Resilience – comfortable working in a fast-paced environment whilst maintaining a positive and flexible attitude with an ability to motivate others.
* People leadership and management – confidence to provide clear direction and inspire those around you, promptly and efficiently addressing personnel issues and training and development needs.
* Creative vision.
* Physical aptitude to working outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions.
* High levels of ethical conduct: honesty, trustworthiness, integrity.
Terms and package:
* £45-55k per annum, depending on experience.
* The opportunity to work in a beautiful and unique setting with a varied job role.
* Complete package available at interview.
Interview process:
1. Screening call with RSL HR department.
2. Interview with RSL Management.
3. Second interview on site with RSL and client.
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