Head Gardener

Private Country Estate – South Devon
Full-time | Live-in or Live-out

A private country estate in South Devon is seeking an experienced and committed Head Gardener to take responsibility for the care, management, and ongoing development of its extensive formal and informal gardens. This is a hands-on role suited to a knowledgeable horticulturist who takes pride in maintaining gardens to an exceptional standard. The role is supported by under gardeners.

The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of garden maintenance across the estate and will work closely with the Estate Manager and owners to ensure the gardens continue to thrive. Applications are welcomed from experienced garden managers as well as capable senior gardeners ready to step into a leadership role.

Key Responsibilities

Overall management and maintenance of all garden areas, including formal gardens, ornamental beds, rose gardens, parkland, orchards, and lakes
Day-to-day hands-on gardening, ensuring consistently high standards of presentation
Management of under gardeners
Operation and routine maintenance of garden machinery, including mowers, strimmer’s, and leaf blowers
Seasonal tasks such as mowing, edging, pruning, planting, weeding, and leaf clearance
Planting, nurturing, and maintaining trees, shrubs, flowers, and lawns
Application of fertilisers and pesticides in accordance with safety, environmental, and best-practice guidelines
Monitoring and managing irrigation systems to ensure efficient water use
Maintenance, care, and safe storage of tools and equipment
Assisting with garden improvement and landscaping projects in consultation with the Estate Manager and owners
Supervising and coordinating any additional garden staff or contractors, as required

· Undertaking other general estate duties when required, which may include driving, assisting with estate logistics, or supporting other departments during busy periods. This is a role that requires flexibility.

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

· Proven practical experience in garden maintenance, horticulture, or estate gardening

Strong plant knowledge and the ability to identify a wide range of plants
Sound understanding of horticultural techniques and seasonal garden management
Physically fit, with the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
A conscientious, reliable, and proactive approach to work
Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining high standards

· A full, clean driving licence and confidence in driving estate vehicles

Desirable Attributes

· Previous experience in a supervisory or management role, or readiness to step into such a position

Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with estate staff and owners
A positive, professional attitude and strong work ethic

Salary and Benefits

· Salary: £38,000 – £48,000 per annum (live-out), dependent on experience

(Salary adjusted accordingly for live-in arrangements)

· Performance bonus: Twice yearly

Use of company vehicle
Company pension scheme
Estate accommodation available

Working Hours

· Monday to Friday

Some weekend work required, by arrangement

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to £48,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension
On-site parking

Experience:

Gardening: 5 years (required)

Language:

Fluent English (required)

Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)

Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person

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Head Gardener