Head Gardener

The Kinross House Estate is one of Scotland’s finest exclusive use 5* destinations. Built by Sir William Bruce in 1683, the House is the first neo-classical mansion ever to be built in Scotland. The Estate comprises over 4000 acres of loch, foreshore and woodland, along with 15 acres of formal gardens and lawns, a walled kitchen garden and glasshouse. The formal garden is acknowledged as one of the finest gardens in Scotland and has featured in many publications.

An exciting opportunity has now arisen to join the team in the role of Head Gardener:-

The Head Gardener is responsible for the full operational management of the team across the estate garden and as such will need to have extensive experience in working on estates previously as either Head Gardener or a senior member of the garden team.

The right candidate is expected to have excellent knowledge of maintaining plant bed and water features in order that they look their best and flourish well across the season, as well as greenhouse plant propagation, kitchen garden vegetables, herbs and cutting flowers for the house. It is crucial to have a good understanding of the seasonal and horticultural calendar in terms of proposed planting and beds.

Planning and conservation of areas such as forestry and trees.  Ensure all lawns and formal garden design are maintained and developed to the highest standards and accuracy in keeping with the ‘spirit of place’ and 2012 Strategic Garden Plan.  Advise and inform estate team on how to demonstrate innovative ideas while remaining true to the estate’s original identity.

The Head Gardener will need to do some estate management so must have experience with budget control and stock management, be computer literate and have superb attention to detail.

Flexibility and discretion and good management are qualities every Estate looks for in a Head Gardener.

• The successful candidate will need to have a keen eye for detail and the ability to work consistently to the highest standards. An interest in and knowledge of the history of estate gardens is important.
• The successful candidate will be an effective communicator and motivator and it goes without saying that the role requires second-to-none organisational skills.
• In particular, the role will also be responsible, along with the rest of the team, for ensuring that events are delivered, managed and operated to the highest standards in keeping with the exclusive and historic nature of the Estate.
• The role also provides security cover for the gardens and associated buildings and covers any call outs for alarms.

This is a hands-on Head Gardener role, managing a team of three Assistant Gardeners. The position requires flexible working hours at times, with possible evening shifts and weekend work required subject to the demands of business. If there are no events taking place, hours can be flexible but generally are from 7.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Qualifications:-

We are looking for someone to join the team who has a positive and can-do attitude to their work, and who will contribute to a friendly and supportive working environment for all staff. The successful candidate will also be able to work effectively with a number of different external suppliers.

• We welcome applications from candidates with RHS / NVQ / SVQ / BTEC in Horticulture, Forestry, Floristry and Conservation qualifications but equally from those with proven and relevant experience in a similar setting, but proven and relevant experience and longevity in roles will be considered equally as important.
• The ability and experience to manage, motivate and nurture the gardens team at all times.
• Proven excellent people-management experience.

A competitive salary is offered for the right experience. Benefits include 25 days holiday plus statutory Scottish bank holidays, a company pension and staff discounts.

This role is also offered with live-in accommodation on the Estate as part of the package (two double bedroomed cottage); we welcome applications from couples who wish to live on the Estate, with one person taking on this role, and the other person taking on another role on the Estate providing they have suitable experience.

To apply fill out the form below or email your CV and cover letter to tracey.george@firstsightestates.com