Are you a passionate horticulturist and inspirational leader ready to oversee one of the most exceptional and historically significant gardens in the UK? The National Trust is looking for a full-time Head Gardener to lead the stewardship of the world-renowned gardens at Mount Stewart in Newtownards, County Down.
About Mount Stewart & the Role
Mount Stewart’s gardens are internationally acclaimed, rich with innovation, character, and a unique blend of historical and botanical excellence. As Head Gardener, you’ll be at the helm of a garden crafted by Lady Londonderry—where whimsical design meets global plant diversity. With over 220,000 annual visitors and growing, this is a rare opportunity to leave a lasting impact.
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Key Details
- 📍 Location: Newtownards BT22 2AD
- 💼 Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent
- 💰 Salary: £40,000 per annum
- 🕒 Hours: 37.5 hours per week
What You’ll Do
- Lead and inspire a team of 10 professional gardeners and 50+ volunteers
- Maintain and enhance the formal gardens and historic landscape
- Collaborate with the General Manager and specialists to uphold garden conservation plans
- Share knowledge and mentor others, building a learning-focused team culture
- Balance strategic planning with hands-on horticulture
- Develop innovative plans that are rooted in history but resilient to future challenges, including climate change
Who We’re Looking For
- Significant practical horticultural experience with qualifications (minimum RHS Level 3 or equivalent)
- Extensive plant knowledge, artistic design skills, and plant husbandry expertise
- Understanding of historic garden conservation and associated management documents
- Exceptional leadership skills and experience working with staff and volunteers
- Track record of delivering visitor engagement programming in outdoor spaces
- Strong budget management and project delivery capabilities
- Excellent communication and team-building skills
- Knowledge of health & safety and compliance practices
What You’ll Receive
- 📈 £40,000 salary with pension contributions of up to 10%
- 🌿 Free access to National Trust sites for you + family (under 18)
- 🚗 Free parking and EV car lease scheme
- 🚉 Season ticket loan and rental deposit loan scheme
- 🏋️♂️ Discounted gym memberships, shopping, cinema
- 🧘♀️ Wellbeing support & Employee Assistance Programme
- 🗓️ Up to 32 days holiday, with flexible and hybrid working where possible
- 🏆 The chance to shape the future of a garden visited by over 220,000 people annually
Working with Us
At the National Trust, our motto is “For everyone, forever.” We’re committed to building inclusive teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. We believe in leadership that nurtures not only the gardens but also the people who care for them.
Application Info
📅 Interviews will be held on-site at Mount Stewart on Monday, 28 April 2025
📩 Apply now at: www.nationaltrustjobs.org.uk
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