Head Gardener
Thyme, The Cotswolds
Full Time| 40 hours per week
Grow With Us
Thyme is a historic English country estate set in the cotswolds - home to a globally accliamed hotel, spa and restaurants, all adjoining the listed Manor house, surrounded by beautifully established and evolving gardens.
Our gardens sit at the very heart of the guest experience. Designed and developed in partnership with renowned horticulturist Bunny Guinness, and set within a wider 150 acre estate that includes productive gardens, orchards and conservation meadows. Thyme offers an inspiring and dynamic horticultural environment.
We are now seeking an experienced hands on Head Gardener with excellent references and a proven track record to lead the continued care and evolution of the gardens surrounding the Lodge, Farmhouse, Manor House, riverbanks and the wild flower meadow.
The Role
This is a leadership role for a passionate gardener who thrives in a high-profile setting where detail, creativity and presentation matter.
Reporting to the owner you will:
- Lead and inspire a team of gardeners
- Oversee the maintenance and ongoing development of the hotel and manor gardens
- Ensure consistently high horticultural standards across all areas
- Plan and implement seasonal planting and landscaping projects
- Nuture soil health and existing planting while evolving the gardens year on year
- Work collaboratively within the wider estates team
- Plan a sequence of work throughout the year which will form the base for monthly and weekly schedules
- Ensure that all garden areas and the wider property are maintained to the highest standard and are always ready for the family and guests
- To maintain and order adequate, appropriate and necessary sundries and supplies promptly, within budgetary limitations
- To ensure that all areas of planting, pruning, cultivation and presentation meet the high standards expected
- To ensure that pests and diseases are effectively controlled by the safest and most ecological friendly means
- To keep on top of any noxious weeds throughout
As a hotel garden, visibility is key. The gardens are regularly used for photo shoots, events and publicity, and there is opportunity to :
- Host garden walks and talks
- Contribute to promotional content with our social media team
- Play an active role in shaping the visual identity of Thyme
About You
You are:
- A knowledgable and passionate horticulturist with proven plant knowledge
- Strong practical experience in a similar setting
- A confident, positive team leader
- Hard working, hands-on and practical
- able to inspire and manage a happy, motivated team
- Committed to high standards and continuous garden evolution
Formal horticultural qualifications are preferable, though we will keep an open mind for the right candidate with strong experience.
PA1 and PA6 spraying certificates are required (or willingness to undertake supported traiing to achieve them)
Why Choose Thyme?
A Flourishing Team
Our culture is vibrant, professional and collaborative. Guided by our values we work together to deliver true hospitality excellence.
A connection to the land
Light-filled workspaces, open gardens and beautiful countryside surroundings ensure we remain connected to nature every day.
Professional Development
We invest in our people through training programmes, leadership development and personalised growth plans.
Competitive Remuneration
We offer excellent pay and a substantial monthly service charge - every penny of which goes directly to our hardworking team.
Benefits
- Exceptionally generous monthly service charge
- 28 days annual leave (inc Bank Holidays)
- 1 extra day off to be taken in your birthday month
- Delicious, healthy meals whilst on duty
- Comfortable team room for breaks
- Employee assistance programme
- Wellbeing programme
- Sustainable uniform provided
- Free on site parking
- £150 team rate stays including family
- 50% off food in the Ox Barn and the Swan
- Cookery Classes £40 ( plus one guest)
- 50% off Spa treatments
- 40 % discount on Bertioli retail
- Annual staff Christmas Party
Our Culture and Values
We are committed to being a caring, welcoming and inclusive employer where diversity is respected and celebrated
Our culture is built on:
- Consideration - for people and planet
- Consistency - through collaboration and communication
- Integrity - honesty, trust and respect
- Pride - in our work and sophosticated style
- Aspiration - striving for excellence and rewarding ambition
We would love to hear from you
