Head Gardener

Head Gardener Sittingbourne, Kent Up to £32K & Benefits

Where nature, care, and remembrance come together.

Nestled in the peaceful Kent countryside, the Garden of England Crematorium is a place of reflection, tranquillity, and natural beauty. We're now seeking a passionate and creative Head Gardener to take pride in leading and nurturing our cherished grounds - shaping an environment that offers comfort, dignity and solace to all who visit.

About Us:

The London Cremation Company (LCC) has been at the heart of compassionate service since 1900, when it was founded by the Cremation Society of Great Britain. Across our six sites, our dedicated teams combine professionalism with empathy, ensuring that every family experiences the highest level of care at life's most sensitive moments.

The Head Gardener Role:

As Head Gardener, you'll take responsibility for the ongoing care, development, and presentation of our extensive gardens and memorial grounds. From formal lawns and rose beds to woodland walks and quiet corners, your work will help maintain a setting of peace and natural harmony.

You'll lead a small, committed team - inspiring them to uphold the highest horticultural standards and ensuring that every aspect of the grounds reflects our values of respect, care, and excellence.

Key Responsibilities of the Head Gardener:

• Oversee all aspects of horticultural care, including planting, pruning, lawn care, and seasonal maintenance.
• Lead and motivate your team, providing training, guidance, and hands-on support.
• Manage ordering, suppliers, and the administrative elements of grounds management.
• Develop creative planting schemes and maintain memorial areas to a consistently high standard.
• Ensure all tools, machinery, and equipment are safely maintained and compliant with regulations.
• Uphold sustainable gardening practices and care for our wildlife-friendly habitats.
• Keep front-of-house and chapel flower courts pristine and service-ready each day.

About You:

You're a knowledgeable and passionate horticulturist who finds purpose in creating beauty, order, and calm through nature. You'll bring:

• Strong plant knowledge, including expertise in roses and memorial planting.
• Confidence in leading a small team with positivity and professionalism.
• A proactive, self-motivated approach and pride in attention to detail.
• Competence in machinery use and basic maintenance.
• Experience of sustainable, environmentally friendly practices.
• IT literacy and familiarity with Microsoft Office.

Desirable qualifications:

• PA1, PA2, PA6 spraying certificates, and proficiency with tractors, ride-on mowers, hedge trimmers, and basic groundwork or fencing.

Please note: You will also undertake FBCA Cremator Technician training (fully funded by the Company), which includes some manual handling and lifting.

Why Join Us?

At the Garden of England Crematorium, your work has lasting meaning. You'll have the chance to combine your horticultural expertise with genuine compassion - helping create a place where families find peace and remembrance amidst the beauty of nature.

If you're ready to take the next step in your gardening career and lead a team in one of Kent's most tranquil and purposeful landscapes, we'd love to hear from you.

What's Next?

Apply now to grow your future with The London Cremation Company.