Katherine Shields Private Staff Ltd
Live-out Head Gardener req near Newbury, Berkshire, up to £45k gpa, Sept start
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Head Gardener
Near Newbury, Berkshire
An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an experienced and passionate Head Gardener to join a prestigious private family estate nestled in the heart of the Berkshire countryside near Newbury. Set around a beautiful historic manor house, this traditional country estate boasts established gardens, landscaped grounds and several additional properties, all of which require the highest standards of care and presentation. This is a rare opportunity for a dedicated horticultural professional to take ownership of the estate's gardens while playing a pivotal role in their future development. The successful candidate will work closely with the Estate Manager and the principals to bring their vision to life, becoming actively involved in the exciting redesign of the main garden and the creation of several new landscaped areas across the estate.
The Head Gardener will assume full responsibility for the care, maintenance and ongoing enhancement of the gardens and grounds, ensuring they are presented to an exceptional standard throughout the year. This hands-on role encompasses every aspect of horticultural management, including:
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- The maintenance of flowers, herbaceous borders, shrubs, mature trees, hedges, lawns and rose gardens
- Seasonal planting, transplanting, pruning, fertilising, spraying, watering, weeding and the effective management of pests and diseases
- Overseeing the implementation of seasonal planting schemes and landscape plans
- Managing the greenhouse including the propagation of flowers, fruit and vegetables
- Caring for the estate's fruit orchard
- General grounds maintenance such as mowing, strimming, mulching, raking, maintaining paths and driveways
- Ensuring all garden machinery, tools, equipment and structures are maintained safely and efficiently
- Overseeing the upkeep of the estate's swimming pool and tennis court
- Caring for the estate chickens and occasionally assisting with the family's pets
As an integral member of the estate team, the Head Gardener will also support wider estate improvement projects whenever required and will demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to assist the family and colleagues as needed.
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We are seeking a highly organised, proactive and self-motivated individual with substantial experience in a similar Head Gardener or senior horticultural position. The ideal candidate will possess:
- Outstanding practical gardening skills
- Excellent plant knowledge and a genuine passion for horticulture
- A creative eye for garden design and development
- Confidence working independently
- Capability of managing your own workload and overseeing multiple projects while maintaining exceptional attention to detail
Advantageous qualifications and experience:
- Horticultural qualifications
- PA1/PA6 spraying certificates
- Knowledge of woodland and tree management
Essential:
- A flexible, positive approach
- Excellent communication skills
- A full, clean UK driving licence
This is a full-time position working Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week, with occasional weekend work required to meet the seasonal demands of the estate.
Salary: around £38-£45k gpa depending on experience
Role to commence in September.
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