Head of Gardens & Horticulture
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds English countryside, Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, is part of the prestigious Emblems Collection set with in 500 acres of parkland.
Our vision has always been to create a place where heritage, nature and refined hospitality come together to create a truly exceptional guest experience.
An exceptional opportunity has arisen at Lucknam Park for a Head of Gardens & Horticulture to lead and nurture our team of Gardeners. This exciting new opportunity demands a deep passion for horticulture and a relentless drive to elevate our historic gardens & grounds. As department head, you will oversee, improve, and preserve our stunning gardens, blending traditional estate heritage with modern horticultural excellence.
Main Responsibilities:
- Lead the department within the management team as Head of Gardens & Horticulture
- Ensure guidance given on the control of equipment, grounds, gardens and estate
- To ensure effective communication within the Gardens team, and throughout the hotel
- Guide the team through training and development
- Good knowledge of Health and Safety policies, compliance and risk assessments
- You will be responsible for maintaining and improving the gardens, instructing the team and managing a variety of tasks, including but not limited to planting, propagating, weeding, pruning, deadheading, mowing, hedge cutting, mulching, scarifying, spraying, and strimming
- Competence in using and maintaining machinery/equipment
- Willingness to carry out any other reasonable work, as directed by senior management
Experience and skills required to fulfil the role:
- Experience of working as a Senior Gardener/Assistant Head Gardener would be an advantage
- Formal horticultural training (minimum of RHS level 3 or equivalent) and gardening experience (5 years minimum) are essential
- Ability to manage and lead a team of staff
- Enthusiasm and passion for horticulture, with an excellent work ethic and a keen eye for detail
- Exceptional plant and species knowledge, and knowledge of seasonal tasks in gardens is essential
- Excellent organisation and communication skills
- Qualifications in spraying and chainsaw would be advantageous
- To be physically fit and enjoy working outdoors in all weathers
THE BENEFITS OF WORKING AT LUCKNAM PARK HOTEL & SPA:
- Part of the team at one of the most award-winning UK country house hotels
- Free staff lunch when on duty
- Free car parking
- Smart Uniform provided for operational staff
- Share of discretionary service charge after qualifying period
- Free use of swimming pool and gym in the Spa, tennis courts and football pitch
- Discount on food in Walled Garden Restaurant lunch & dinner
- Discount on Spa treatments & products and Equestrian Centre sessions
- Complimentary room nights at Lucknam Park after qualifying period
- Access to the Employee Assistance Programme through Hospitality Action
- Enhanced employer pension contributions
- Enhanced annual holiday allowance
- On the job training, development and promotional possibilities
We are offering a competitive salary for a full-time role, which may include evenings, weekends. You will report directly to the General Manager.
If you are passionate about luxury hospitality and wish to contribute to the next chapter of one of Britain's most iconic country estates, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Due to the location of the property it is advisable to have your own transport.
To apply please forward a copy of your current CV.
In line with the requirements of UK immigration legislation all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documentary evidence of eligibility to work will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process. If you do not already have the right to live and work in the UK please do not apply as we cannot help with obtaining the relevant visas.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Chippenham SN14 8AZ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Licence/Certification:
- RHS Level 3 Qualification (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
