Head Gardener

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.

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.
• 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.
• Ensure the irrigation system is correctly maintained and kept in proper working order.
• Implement safety policies and procedures.
• Effectively manage the garden team and provide detailed weekly work reports, and liaising with security, housekeeping staff and other contractors.

Required qualifications:

• Relevant horticultural qualification, preferably Level 3 or above
• Health and safety qualification, e.g. NEBOSH General, or relevant professional qualification
• Advanced level of irrigation knowledge and spraying certificate PA1/PA6
• Sound knowledge of standard horticultural practices (planting, pruning, fertilising, etc), growth characteristics and identification of a wide variety of plants

Essentials:

• Prior experience in a horticulture role for UHNW clients
• Full clean EU or UK driving license