National Trust
Here, you will draw on history and bring happiness to our visitors. Employing your horticultural and leadership skills, you will support the Head Gardener in directing the Garden Team to continue to enhance the grounds leading up to our mansion, the unique Italianate Garden, the Albana Walk and the wider gardens.
What it’s like to work here
We are located just a few miles from both Bury St Edmunds and the A14. Travel is therefore quick and easy. The iconic Ickworth Rotunda is set in 1,800 acres of gardens and parkland and 300,000 visitors come to enjoy the estate every year.
Like our visitors, you will be able to appreciate and benefit from this stunning setting. The estate team are strong. They are delivering exciting programming and projects and our visitor numbers are rapidly growing as a result. You’ll be joining a property team who are very committed to the National Trust’s aims and values and also to each other.
For more information about Ickworth Estate please visit Ickworth Estate | Suffolk | National Trust .
If you are interested and have any questions, please arrange a call or visit with the Head Gardener (01284 735270).
What you’ll be doing
As Senior Gardener you will work alongside the Head Gardener and two gardeners. Under the leadership of the Head Gardener, you will help to set and deliver high expectations, formulate and implement improvements, and develop the gardeners’ abilities. The team is supported by a large number of volunteers and leading these volunteers is likely to be part of your role too. Much of your work will be hands-on, setting the standard and training others. There will also be an office element to the role which will be determined through discussion with the Head Gardener in order to utilise your particular expertise.
Please also read the full role profile attached to this advert.
Who we’re looking for
To Deliver This Role Successfully, You’ll Need
- Strong horticultural knowledge
- Significant practical experience, including plant husbandry, horticultural techniques and operation of machinery
- A good understanding of the correct approach to gardening in a historic setting
- A commitment to enhancing visitor engagement in the gardens
- The ability to successfully supervise, train and mentor staff and volunteers utilising good communication and people skills
- The ability to monitor and manage the resources and budgets that are delegated to you
- To be able to show initiative and contribute to the core values of the Trust, enabling you to make a difference
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)
- Tax free childcare scheme
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- Perks at work discounts i.e. 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 locations
- Independent financial advice
Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.
To apply for this job please visit careers.nationaltrust.org.uk.