Relais & Chateau at Thornbury Castle are seeking a passionate, professional, well-organised and talented Head Gardener for managing and maintaining the listed gardens and grounds to the highest horticultural standards.  You will be working in a unique and beautifully restored Castle, creating truly memorable and impressive 5* experiences for our guests.

About Us 
Set on 15 acres of beautiful land, Thornbury Castle Hotel is the only Tudor Castle operating as a hotel in England. The Castle has recently completed a multi-million pound refurbishment program bringing back to life the regal grandeur of its past. Located 20 minutes’ drive from Bristol, it offers 26 bedchambers and suites, an award-winning restaurant, bar and two unique meeting and conference spaces. 
Our company goal is to deliver “refined and personalised hospitality” to enable our hotel to be a place where all guests can relax, enjoy themselves and have a break from normal life. To feel like royalty in a unique place with unique people.

We are looking for a talented, passionate, driven, accountable and experienced Head Gardener.  The successful candidate will have great attention to detail, a positive attitude and excellent communication skills.
This is an exciting opportunity to be a key part of the hotel’s planned growth over the next few years.

•    Establish, maintain and manage the historical listed gardens and grounds at the highest standards
•    In charge of the continuous development of the gardens 
•    Lead the garden team effectively and professionally and oversee the Gardens volunteer section
•    Manage the day-to-day maintenance of the garden: lawn care, hedge-cutting, tree assessment, pruning, weeding, planting and all associated garden tasks
•    Maintain and develop the kitchen garden and liaise with the Head Chef for seasonal products
•    Take ownership of safe working practises within the estate and work with our risk assessment programme
•    Proactive garden design/upgrade proposals and manage annual budget
•    Practical knowledge of plants, tools, materials and use of general garden machinery
•    To undertake Garden Tours for guests, guiding them through the award-winning historic gardens providing a knowledgeable behind the scenes experience
 

•    The Head Gardener must hold a recognised qualification, at least Level 4 NVQ equivalent in Horticulture or relevant experience.
•    Previous managerial experience in handling efficiently a team.
•    PA1 and PA6 spraying certification.
•    Chainsaw certification preferred (CS30/31).
 

•    Salary £34,493
•    Full-time permanent position
•    40 hours, 5 days a week (possible inclusion of weekends)
•    An additional share of service charge every month
•    5 days’ sick pay after 6 months service
•    28 days holiday including bank holidays
•    An additional paid day off on your birthday
•    Complimentary stay at the Castle after 3 months’ probation successfully passed
•    Training programs (internal and via external professionals) and access to online training facilities
•    Staff and family rates on hotel accommodation and discounts on food and beverage
•    Recognition programs
•    Uniform provided and free parking