Head Gardener - Private Estate County Wicklow

Head Gardener - Vacancy

The estate accommodation is available as part of the overall package, subject to individual circumstances and agreement.

A distinguished private estate in County Wicklow is seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Head Gardener to lead the care, presentation and continued evolution of its exceptional gardens.

Reporting to and working closely with the Estate Leadership Team, the successful candidate will provide confident horticultural leadership, oversee the garden team and support the estate's long term vision for excellence.

This is a hands on senior appointment, combining exceptional practical horticultural expertise with strategic planning, team leadership and the ongoing development of a garden of real distinction.

With sustained owner commitment to investment, quality and long term stewardship, the role offers a rare opportunity for an experienced horticultural leader to shape a lasting garden legacy.

The Estate

The formal gardens extend to approximately 16 acres within a 250-acre private estate. They have benefited from substantial recent investment and continue to be a central focus of the estate's long term enhancement programme.

The gardens comprise:

• Extensive formal and informal gardens
• A substantial herbaceous border
• Productive vegetable and kitchen gardens
• A mature tree lined avenue
• Manicured lawns and established planting schemes
• Seasonal displays and ornamental features
• A substantial propagation nursery supporting the estate's planting programmes

Principal Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership for the day to day presentation, maintenance and performance of all garden areas.
• Design and deliver annual and seasonal horticultural work programmes aligned with the estate's standards and objectives.
• Maintain and continually enhance the formal gardens, herbaceous borders, kitchen and vegetable gardens, seasonal displays, topiary, hedging and lawns.
• Oversee the propagation of nursery stock, seed germination and plant production for estate displays and planting schemes.
• Manage tree identification and assist with long term tree management programmes.
• Develop planting plans and contribute ideas for the ongoing enhancement of the gardens.
• Prepare, manage and monitor annual garden budgets in partnership with the Estate Leadership Team.
• Lead, motivate and develop a dedicated garden team, currently comprising seven permanent staff together with additional seasonal personnel.
• Identify training and development opportunities and support the progression of team members.
• Assist with the recruitment, induction and retention of gardening personnel.
• Ensure all horticultural operations are carried out safely and in line with Health & Safety legislation and estate procedures.
• Oversee the operation, maintenance and safe use of garden machinery, vehicles, tools and lifting equipment.
• Manage relationships with contractors, consultants and suppliers to ensure exceptional standards of workmanship and service delivery.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will bring:

• A minimum of ten years' experience as a Head Gardener or Assistant Head Gardener in a high quality garden environment.
• A proven track record in the management of prestigious private estates, historic gardens or significant public gardens.
• Broad practical knowledge of:
  • Amenity horticulture
  • Kitchen and vegetable gardens
  • Herbaceous planting
  • Seasonal displays
  • Topiary and formal gardens
  • Lawns, trees and ornamental planting
  • Nursery propagation
• Excellent plant knowledge and practical horticultural skills.
• Exceptional leadership, organisational and people management capability.
• A practical, highly proactive approach, underpinned by meticulous attention to detail.
• A thorough understanding of Health & Safety requirements in horticultural operations.

Qualifications Essential

• QQI Level 6 Certificate in Horticulture (or equivalent recognised qualification).

Desirable

• Higher qualification in Horticulture, Arboriculture or a related discipline.
• Full clean driving licence.
• Manual Handling certification.
• First Aid certification.

Personal Attributes

• A genuine passion for horticulture and an uncompromising commitment to excellence.
• The presence, judgement and interpersonal skills to lead, inspire and support a skilled team.
• A highly organised approach, with strong planning, prioritisation and delivery skills.
• A practical, solutions focused mindset and the confidence to take ownership.
• Self motivated and capable of working independently.
• Professional, discreet and trustworthy.
• A commitment to exceptional presentation standards, continuous improvement and the long term stewardship of the gardens.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary of €70,000 per annum.
• Estate accommodation is available as part of the overall package, subject to individual circumstances and agreement.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• The opportunity to lead, shape and elevate one of Ireland's finest private gardens.
• A long term career opportunity in a supportive, professional estate environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A current Curriculum Vitae.
• A covering letter outlining their relevant experience and suitability for the role.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview and, where appropriate, to visit the estate as part of the selection process.