Job Description

Job Summary:

Todds Nursery Ltd, now proudly part of the Urban & Civic Group, is a modern and progressive tree, hedge, and large shrub nursery located in the idyllic village of Southill, near Biggleswade. We are seeking an experienced and motivated Nursery Manager to lead and oversee all day-to-day nursery operations.

This key leadership role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production across the site. Working closely with the Nursery Director and wider team, the Nursery Manager will drive operational excellence, workforce development, and compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. With a focus on organisation, quality, and teamwork, the successful candidate will play a vital role in delivering the nursery's business objectives and upholding its reputation for excellence and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

Supervision and Leadership

Set goals and performance targets for direct reports and oversee their delivery

Chair weekly team meetings to monitor safety and production

Lead on site standards, team culture, and operational excellence

Work closely with Senior Operatives under the direction of the Nursery Director

Health & Safety

Oversee safe systems of work, welfare provision, and fire safety

Maintain safe systems of work across all nursery sectors

Ensure that health and safety checks are carried out and filed correctly

Manage COSHH, lifting practices, inspections, and PPE compliance

Write method statements and risk assessments for nursery tasks

Carry out safety briefings

Operational Standards

Lead by example with excellent workmanship in delivery of nursery products

Establish high standards across production, maintenance and installation

Manage nursery compliance with production quality, safety, estate and sustainability targets

Ensure tidiness across work areas, vehicles, and welfare facilities

Report equipment issues and arrange repairs/replacements

Maintain waste segregation and book skips/contractors as needed

Planning and Procedures

Survey tree installation jobs and plan safe methodology

Plan logistics for all tree orders and bulk deliveries

Assign time and resources to meet nursery business targets

Maintain stock register of material supplies

Manage irrigation system knowledge, repairs, and long-term maintenance

Client Management and Interface

Assist with large tree installs when needed

Take nursery sales appointments with specialist knowledge

Support tree aftercare contracts and respond to enquiries

Attend trade events and client visits when appropriate

Business Development

Promote the nursery through trade shows, site visits, advertising, and networking

Build relationships with growers and clients to maintain strong market presence

Development and Adaptation

Maintain the highest operational standards across nursery production

Support long-term growth and career progression within the role

Essential Requirements

Proven management experience in horticulture, construction, agriculture, or a related industry.

Strong leadership, organisation, and planning skills with a proactive and hands-on approach.

Sound knowledge of health & safety, compliance, and quality control standards.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset.

IT literate with experience managing operational and reporting systems.

Full UK driving licence

.

Desired Requirements

SMSTS/IOSH/NEBOSH

Degree/NVQ/Formal qualifications

Plant and equipment licenses

Full-time, Permanent, 40 hours per week (Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4:00pm including a 30-minute unpaid break)

Salary: Competitive

This role offers an exceptional opportunity for an accomplished individual to contribute to a respected and forward-thinking organisation. If you are motivated by quality, leadership, and operational achievement, we welcome your application to join our team and help shape the continued success of Todds Nursery.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person