National Trust Careers – Head Gardener

About the job

Summary

***INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY***

As Head Gardener of the first large mansion acquisition for the Trust, Barrington Court, you’ll lead and manage the care of the gardens and grounds within a medieval manor farm estate. Working as part of the property leadership team you’ll contribute to the running of the whole estate and play a key role in the development of Barrington’s future. This is a unique opportunity to embrace beauty, horticulture, productivity, and connection with landscape all in one role.

What it’s like to work here

As one of the earliest acquisitions of the Trust, Barrington Court is a property that is embarking on an exciting journey over the next few years. With the mansions currently closed for a £8 million conservation project, the gardens are even more important for our visitor experience. The formal walled gardens are complimented by orchards, an arboretum and a kitchen garden, as well as other features including moats and a glorious lime tree avenue.

There is no better time to join the property team as we are all excited about realising the ambitions to improve the farm buildings and overall visitor experience; taking and shaping our plans to deliver an outstanding visitor experience for everyone. This arts and crafts garden, inspired by Gertrude Jekyll, will be at the heart of our offer over the next few years whilst our conservation and development work continues.

As part of the wider South Somerset portfolio, you will be able to draw on the knowledge and skills of two Head Gardener’s and the Lead Ranger, as well as an experienced senior management team. We work closely with our Garden Consultant as well as our Curator and Conservator, all of whom will support your personal development. With a brand new conservation management plan, the time to reflect and create your vision for the future has never been more exciting.

What you’ll be doing

As Head Gardener you’ll be leading a team of three gardeners who are eager to deliver their very best. They are ably supported by a number of volunteers. You’ll utilise your skills and knowledge to implement high standards of garden maintenance and lead on the development of new aspects of the gardens. Some of your work will be hands-on, setting the standard and training others. You’ll also have an office focus which will include planning rotas, project delivery, resourcing, finance and people matters. You’ll also work with our Garden Consultant, who will support your workstreams and acts as an advisor you can call on if encountering diverse matters. Naturally you’ll join our cohort of lead horticulturists (regionally and nationally) where knowledge, skills and ideas are regularly shared.

As a Head of Department, you’ll also become a member of the Property Leadership Team. You’ll contribute to whole property decision making and direction. You’ll consider the whole estate and the gardens position within it, helping to deliver our short-term Business Plans and 10 Year Plans.

Who we’re looking for

We’d love to hear from you if you have the following skills and experience:

• Strong horticultural education and training
• A good team leader in relation to communication, service and people skills
• An understanding of the importance of the “spirit of place” in maintaining and developing a historic garden
• Ability to develop and communicate an inspirational vision
• A commitment to engage our supporters – from volunteers to members, visitors to key external partners
• High expectations of self and others
• Skilled in the management of budgets including annual needs of machinery, tools and equipment
• Experience of project planning and delivery
• A desire to make a difference, show initiative and contribute to the core values of the Trust.

The package

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Flexible working whenever possible
• Free parking at most locations
• Free entry to our properties for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.