Head Gardener

We have an exciting opportunity for a Head Gardener to join the team at Mount Stewart, to manage and care for one of the most exceptional gardens in the ownership of the National Trust.

We are looking for someone to bring their passion, specialist knowledge and expertise to lead a fantastic team to care for these world-renowned gardens to the highest standards, as well as provide access and enjoyment for local and international visitors all year round.

This role is required to work with vulnerable groups including children and any offer of employment or volunteering is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

What it's like to work here

Mount Stewart is a place that has been touched by the various generations who have loved it. Whilst always respecting the past and finding inspiration from its history, Mount Stewart has been unafraid of change throughout the generations, endeavouring to remain relevant in modern times.

The gardens at Mount Stewart, the creation of Edith, Lady Londonderry, are renowned for their innovation and uniqueness. The Formal Gardens are intimate, evoking themes of personal identity and triumphs, blending whimsical Classical and Gaelic mythology with exotic plants sourced from around the globe.

Last year we welcomed over 220,000 visitors and have ambitions to grow our appeal further.

Over 100 staff members and 250 volunteers have a shared sense of purpose in caring for this wonderful place together, providing a wide range of public benefit to our visitors and local communities.

What you'll be doing

You'll report to the General Manager and be responsible for the whole garden operation, leading and inspiring a gardening staff team of ten and over fifty garden volunteers, ranging from those developing new skills to passionate experts. We are looking for someone who is invested in their people, regularly shares their knowledge and experience with others and is committed to team learning and development, as well as their own. You'll ensure we have a sustainable and mutually beneficial volunteering model which supports our gardens and our people to thrive and you'll support an inclusive culture, where everyone feels a positive sense of belonging.

The day-to-day nature of the role is a blended mix of leading from the front, strategic planning of the management and development of the garden and hands on time in the gardens.

We will support you to develop a detailed understanding of the history and significance of the plant collection at Mount Stewart so that you can develop plans which are inspired by the past but also look to the future, especially as we face into the challenges of climate change impacts on the gardens.

For more information, please read the role profile and additional information sheet attached to this vacancy. Interviews will be held at Mount Stewart on Monday 28 th April 2025.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for someone who has:

• Significant practical experience in horticulture, supported by appropriate qualifications to at least RHS level 3 or equivalent
• Sound and extensive plant knowledge and plant husbandry skills with some artistic plantsmanship/design skills
• Knowledge and understanding of the conservation of historic landscapes and the ability to work with key management documents including Statement of Significance, Conservation Management Plan and the Garden Management Plan in order to retain as well as build upon the garden's unique character
• Great leadership skills with experience of managing and supporting teams of staff and volunteers
• Experience of personal contribution to the development and delivery of interventions and/or programming within gardens and the outdoors to enhance visitor engagement, drive visitor growth or deepen community connections
• Good communication skills, enabling positive relationships to be built and maintained externally and internally
• Knowledge of all relevant Health & Safety and Compliance requirements
• Ability to work to budgets and plan accordingly
• Experience of managing delivery of small to medium projects within agreed budget and timelines

The package

The 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
• Season ticket loan
• EV car lease scheme
• 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