Assistant Head Gardener

Overview

As the team continues to grow, an exciting new role has become available for an Assistant Head Gardener to join a small team on a significant, privately owned 15‑acre estate near Banbury currently undergoing an extensive, long‑term redevelopment. Around five acres are intensively gardened, with the site being redesigned and planted under the guidance of renowned landscape designer Dan Pearson. Although the garden is still in its project phase it holds exceptional potential.

The successful candidate will join at an exciting time, contributing to the regeneration and establishment of a highly considered, organically managed garden.

The garden areas are made up of extensive yew hedging, wildflower meadows, a large lake with a boathouse, lawns, a newly constructed walled garden, and a Victorian‑style glasshouse. Much of the landscaping is carried out by external contractors, but all planting is completed in‑house by the garden team to maintain high standards. The estate is managed organically, with some areas Soil Association certified, requiring a strong commitment to non‑chemical horticulture and an ability to maintain standards through rigorous hand‑weeding and traditional methods.

Daily duties are varied and may include weeding, planting, propagation, greenhouse care, pruning, hedge cutting, lawn care, and working in or around water. The new walled garden will include cut flowers, vegetable beds, and dedicated propagation space. The glasshouse serves a dual purpose: half as a functional propagation area for the garden, and half as an aesthetically pleasing space the owners can use socially.

Work will be allocated according to skills and strengths; while candidates do not need expertise in every area, they must demonstrate strong horticultural ability while maintaining flexibility as the team grows.

The Assistant Head Gardener will work alongside the Head Gardener leading a team of three, with the team expected to expand further as the garden develops. A collaborative, positive working environment is paramount, and the client places strong emphasis on building a happy, motivated team with genuine passion for horticulture. Excellent new facilities including a purpose‑built garden barn and break room are in development to support the team.

The client is highly engaged, visiting regularly, and values a thoughtful, nature‑focused approach to garden management.

Candidates will ideally hold a recognised horticultural qualification (e.g., RHS Level
2) or demonstrate equivalent experience gained within a high‑quality, diverse garden. Strong horticultural knowledge, especially in organic gardening, is essential. A driving licence is required due to the rural location, and a DBS check will be necessary.

up to £40,000 DOE

Banbury, Oxfordshire

For those interested in the Assistant Head Gardener vacancy, please apply below, call Sara Yassin on or inf