Lead Grower - West Sussex - £35,000-£40,000 + Flexible Working Pattern + Free parking + Benefits

Lead Grower - West Sussex

£35,000-£40,000 + Flexible Working Pattern + Free parking + Benefits

The Job

This is a hands on role leading the day to day running and development of a 2-acre market garden. You'll be responsible for producing high quality fruit and vegetables for both wholesale supply and a new field to fork restaurant. You'll work closely with the wider garden team and kitchen, helping shape the growing plan and ensuring a consistent supply of seasonal produce. This is a great opportunity to put your stamp on a developing site and play a key role in its long term direction.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and manage crop production to ensure a consistent and varied supply throughout the year
• Oversee daily tasks across the market garden, including supervising part time staff and volunteers
• Work closely with the wider garden team to align growing plans with overall estate plans
• Support the development of a productive, sustainable growing system
• Manage sowing, planting, harvesting, and crop rotation schedules
• Supply produce to both wholesale customers and the on site restaurant

The Company

A well established charitable estate set within extensive parkland and a historic garden of national significance. The estate is going through an exciting period of change, with new investment into food production, visitor experience and long term sustainability. As part of this focused on seasonal, locally sourced produce, much of which will be grown on site. Alongside this, there is a growing focus on community engagement, education, and environmentally responsible growing practices.

The Candidate

• Practical experience in horticulture or market gardening, ideally with a recognised qualification (RHS Level 2 or similar)
• Good understanding of crop planning, propagation, rotations, and non-chemical pest and disease control
• Experience growing crops both outdoors and under cover (e.g. polytunnels)
• Confident organising workloads and managing day-to-day activity
• Experience working with tools, machinery, and garden equipment
• Good understanding of health and safety on site, including risk assessments
• Comfortable with basic IT systems and record keeping
• Team player who communicates well and enjoys working closely with others
• Interest in sustainable or biodynamic growing methods would be beneficial

The Package

• Competitive salaryDOE
• Free parking
• Free access to the estate's gardens and parkland
• Discounts across on site retail and catering
• Complimentary tickets to selected events
• Access to partner gardens at selected times
• Wellbeing activities and events
• Flexible working approach

Candidate Requirements

All applicants must hold a minimum of an NVQ Level 2, Scottish NVQ Level 2, or an equivalent qualification relevant to the role applied for. Candidates must also have the legal right to work in the UK or hold a valid visa permitting employment.