Job Description

Head Gardener | Sittingbourne, Kent | Up to 32,000 + Benefits

Where nature, care, and remembrance come together.

Nestled in the peaceful Kent countryside, this beautifully maintained crematorium and memorial ground is a place of reflection, tranquillity, and natural beauty. We're now seeking a passionate and creative

Head Gardener

to lead and nurture the cherished grounds -- shaping an environment that offers comfort, dignity, and solace to all who visit.

About the Role:

As

Head Gardener

, you'll be responsible for the ongoing care, development, and presentation of the extensive gardens and memorial landscapes. 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, dedicated team -- inspiring them to uphold the highest horticultural standards and ensuring that every aspect of the grounds reflects 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, motivate, and support your team through guidance and hands-on involvement. 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 properly maintained and compliant with regulations. Uphold sustainable gardening practices and care for 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. Experience leading or mentoring a small team. A proactive, self-motivated approach and meticulous attention to detail. Competence in machinery use and basic maintenance. Commitment to environmentally sustainable practices. IT literacy and familiarity with Microsoft Office.

Desirable qualifications include:

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

Please note: This role also involves undertaking

FBCA Cremator Technician training

(fully funded), which includes some manual handling and lifting.

Why Join?

This is a rare opportunity to lead the care of a truly meaningful landscape -- one that brings comfort to families and celebrates the beauty of nature. You'll be part of a supportive and respectful team where your skills and dedication will make a lasting difference every day.

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 settings, we'd love to hear from you.

What's Next?

Apply now to grow your future in a role that blends horticultural excellence with heart and purpose.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 30,000.00-32,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Flexitime Health & wellbeing programme
Work Location: In person