Job Description

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Lead Gardener to manage and care for the historic gardens and landscaped grounds of a Grade I listed property.

To manage and maintain the gardens and green spaces of Wiston Estate, using a strong horticultural background, a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, and proven leadership skills to oversee a team of gardeners.

This role is both hands-on and supervisory, ensuring high standards of presentation, biodiversity, and long-term planning and maintenance of the garden landscape.

The grounds of Wiston House (approx. 17 acres) comprise of herbaceous borders and terraces, formal and informal lawns and parkland, an Italianate parterre garden, extensive formal hedging, apple orchards, wildflower and woodland areas, cascade and pond and small water features.

Wiston House is currently leased to Wilton Park, an executive agency of the UK foreign and commonwealth office. Leading figures in politics, diplomacy, business and academia gather here to discuss issues affecting the world today. The gardens team play a vital role in creating and maintaining a tranquil outdoor space where some of these discussions can continue. The post holder will be required to take an enhanced security check on appointment.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and coordinate day-to-day gardening operations across all green spaces, taking full responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance of all garden areas. Strong focus on cleanliness, tidiness, and plant health. Plan and implement seasonal planting schemes, soil care, pruning, turf care, and pest/disease control using sustainable methods, preparing and managing the annual Garden budget to facilitate the ability to do this. Supervise and train a team of gardeners, apprentices, and volunteers. Develop and manage maintenance schedules to ensure optimal appearance and health of gardens throughout the year. Carry out regular tasks such as mowing, weeding, pruning, deadheading, edging, mulching, and watering with care and precision. Implement environmentally sustainable practices, including composting, organic treatments, and water-efficient irrigation systems. Manage procurement of tools, equipment, plants, and materials, ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations across all gardening operations. Collaborate with wider Estate departments as needed. Maintain accurate records of work, planting schedules, and inventories. Recording garden activities, planting notes, and observations to inform future maintenance and improvement. Contribute ideas for garden development and enhancement in line with long-term strategic goals. Contribute to the vision of Lease owners to Wiston House and impact the experience of visitors by maintaining the surrounding environment to facilitate and enhance their experience.

Requirements:

Formal qualification in horticulture, RHS Level 3 Diploma, NVQ Level 3, or equivalent Minimum 5 years' practical gardening experience, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities. PA1/PA6 Spraying Certificates, First Aid certification. Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills. Strong knowledge of plant care, soil management, pests/diseases, propagation and historical landscape conservation principles. Experience with tools and machinery used in garden maintenance. Excellent organisational, communication, and team management skills. Passion for green sustainability and biodiversity. Physically fit and willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions. Full, clean driving license (preferred).

Desirable:

Experience working in heritage, botanical, or public gardens. Knowledge of traditional gardening techniques and historical planting styles. Familiarity with conservation and wildlife gardening principles. Budget management experience.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 34,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Employee discount Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Paid volunteer time Sick pay
Schedule:

Day shift
Experience:

gardening experience, incl management responsibilities: 5 years (required)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person