***INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY PLEASE***
We’re looking for a Horticultural Support Lead to join our Gardens & Parks team, working at a national level to provide expert guidance, training, and hands-on support across a diverse portfolio of gardens. This is a collaborative role where you’ll mentor teams, shape sustainable horticultural practices, and help drive forward strategic and environmental improvements across our sites.
What it's like to work here:You’ll report to the Senior National Specialist for Environmental Horticulture but work with the whole National Gardens and Parks team. We are a close team, where high support and high challenge is expected. We work with a wide variety of stakeholders, both internal and external, providing leadership on horticultural approach in our properties and beyond.
Your contractual location will be our head office in Swindon or an agreed regional hub local to you. There is flexibility on where you are based and you will be required to work at a National Trust location for 40-60% of your working week. The role will require national travel and this will be discussed in more detail at interview.
What you'll be doing:You’ll support the Gardens & Parks community and Access and Urban teams with the delivery of horticultural training and content, development of guidance and handling of data, including that relating to management of plant collections, and conservation and management of gardens. With a strong background in horticulture and good knowledge of plants and growing techniques, you’ll be able to provide guidance directly to gardeners and other operational teams but you’ll also be inquisitive, keen to learn about new approaches and able to undertake research efficiently. With a focus on our smaller garden teams, you’ll spend time in gardens to help problem solve, mentor and support with plant procurement and garden health. You’ll also play a key role in engaging the gardens and parks volunteering community and moving horticultural approach forward to meet future strategic and environmental needs.
- Who we're looking forLevel 3 horticultural qualification or equivalent experience with knowledge of sustainable and heritage horticulture
- Experience working in public-facing gardens, including delivering small projects and using research findings
- Ability to plan and manage multiple tasks with attention to detail
- Clear communication and presentation skills; able to work with a range of people
- Experience supporting others through coaching or mentoring
- Able to work independently and adapt to changing priorities
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint); experience in networking and project work
The packageThe National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- EV car lease scheme (for roles that meet the salary criteria)
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
Requirements :Compliance.Eligibility to Work in the UK
Permanent f/t (37.5 hrs pw)
