The Torry Hill Estate is a mixed 3000 acre family owned estate in the North Downs.

A Head Gardener is now required to lead the existing skilled team of garden staff in a role that is varied, practical and challenging.

The Role

A new Head Gardener will lead an existing team of staff, responsible for:

• Management and development of two principal family gardens, both open under the National Gardens Scheme, including a kitchen garden
• Maintenance of gardens and grounds associated with a holiday letting business and residential properties, and of a cricket pitch and a private miniature railway.
• Management of garden machinery including organising maintenance and servicing.
• Supervision and co-ordination of health and safety practices relevant to the team, their machinery and equipment.

The Head Gardener will report to the estate owner day to day, and work within a small close-knit team of existing estate staff.

The Individual

We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic individual with good practical experience in gardening and team leadership, with the following attributes:

• Good plant knowledge, expertise in cultivation and hands on garden management experience
• A proven track record in a leadership role supporting and developing a team
• Proficiency in the use and maintenance of garden machinery
• Competence in relevant health and safety legislation and practices applicable to the role
• PA1 and PA6A spray certificates would be an advantage.
• Experience in forestry and tree inspection would be an advantage.

Technical training can be provided as required

The Package

• A competitive salary package of up to £38,000 per annum dependent on experience, offered with a pension
• The position is to start as soon as possible 
• Daily working hours are 7.30am to 4.00pm
• Holiday entitlement is 23 days annually plus bank holidays
• Accommodation could be available on rental terms to be discussed

Applications should be submiited with a covering letter to recruitment@torryhill.co.uk by 14th February 2025. Applicants selected for interview to attend at Torry Hill Farm.