Head Gardener (Live-out, Full-time)
Location: East Sussex / Kent Border
Days: Monday – Friday (flexibility required)
Hours: Full-time
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Please Present Salary Expectations

An experienced and knowledgeable Head Gardener is sought to oversee the maintenance and ongoing development of the gardens on a beautiful private estate located on the East Sussex/Kent border.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on horticultural professional who takes pride in maintaining gardens to an exceptional standard. The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day care of the Manor House and Farmhouse gardens, whilst also contributing to the estate's kitchen garden and farm shop production.

Key Responsibilities

Garden Maintenance

• Maintaining the Manor House gardens and Farmhouse gardens to an exceptional standard throughout the year
• Carrying out all aspects of routine garden maintenance, including mowing, pruning, weeding and hedge cutting
• Planning and implementing seasonal planting schemes
• Monitoring plant health and undertaking pest and disease management where required
• Ensuring all outdoor spaces are neat, tidy and beautifully presented

Kitchen Garden & Estate Growing

• Maintaining and developing the estate's kitchen garden
• Growing seasonal fruit, vegetables, herbs and produce
• Cultivating plants and produce for the estate's farm shop
• Assisting with ongoing planting and garden improvement projects

General Estate Duties

• Operating and maintaining gardening machinery and equipment safely
• Ensuring tools and equipment are well maintained and stored appropriately
• Identifying areas for improvement and contributing to the ongoing enhancement of the estate grounds
• Working independently to manage daily workloads and seasonal priorities

Candidate Requirements

• Previous experience working as a Head Gardener, ideally within a private estate
• Strong horticultural knowledge with excellent practical gardening skills
• Experience maintaining kitchen gardens and growing seasonal produce
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
• Reliable, proactive and able to work independently
• A genuine passion for horticulture and maintaining high standards
• Full UK driving licence preferred