HEAD GARDENER
Sevenoaks, Kent | Full-time, live-out | 40-45K Negotiable for outstanding candidate
Riverhill Himalayan Gardens is one of Kent’s most loved privately owned historic gardens, set across 12 acres of beautifully restored walled garden, woodland, rose walks and the spectacular Edwardian Rock Garden. Riverhill is a unique blend of heritage, horticultural excellence, creative events and warm visitor experiences.
We are looking for a hands-on Head Gardener to lead the continued care, development and restoration of our remarkable gardens.
This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled horticultural professional with strong plant knowledge and a passion for historic landscapes. You will oversee all aspects of the garden’s presentation, seasonal planting, conservation and long-term development, while helping to shape the next chapter of Riverhill’s ongoing restoration story.
Key responsibilities
Lead and inspire the gardening team (equivalent of two full-time) and volunteers
Manage year-round maintenance of all garden areas, including the Walled Garden, Wood Garden, Rose Walk and Rock Garden
Develop seasonal planting schemes and enhance visitor impact
Support restoration and conservation projects across the estate
Monitor and manage plant health, soil care and irrigation
Maintain machinery, equipment and tools
Collaborate with estate-wide colleagues for visitor engagement, events and other activities
Ensure health and safety for the staff, volunteers and visitors are up to date and in place
About you
Essential requirements
Experience in senior horticultural or head gardener role
Excellent plant knowledge
Flexible and dynamic, able to plan but adjust to changing priorities if required
Passion for garden restoration, creativity and visitor experience
Level 2 RHS qualification or equivalent
Enjoys public engagements, able to give tours of the gardens
Understands and manage H&S requirements
Physically capable to carry out all gardening tasks including work on ladders
Full driving license
Basic computer skills and able to communicate effectively with wide range of people
First aid at work certified or willingness to become one
Desirable requirements
Chainsaw certificate and confident in use of chainsaws
Experience in maintaining water features
Level 3 or higher horticultural qualification
Experience in basic hard landscaping tasks such as fencing
Experience in using larger machines such as excavator, tractor etc
Experience managing contractors and tradespeople
Experience in working in gardens which are historic and / or open to the public
Understanding and experience in garden design
Knowledge of tree safety assessment
To apply: Please send your CV and covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for this role to info@riverhillgardens.co.uk
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, with interviews scheduled accordingly, so early application is advised.
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