Head Gardener

Are you an enthusiastic, confident and experienced gardener? We are seeking a Head Gardener to join our team in Scotland, nurturing and developing one of the region’s most exciting hospital gardens. Working alongside the Patient Experience Manager, you will oversee the care and development of the garden, support patients with spinal injuries, and help create a welcoming, thriving space for everyone who uses it.

You will lead a part-time Garden Coordinator and volunteer team, build relationships with NHS staff, supporters and partners, and work closely with colleagues across Horatio’s Garden. You will also play a key role in delivering patient-focused activities, improving access to the garden, and leading events including garden tours and fundraising open days.

Job Title:

Head Gardener

Location:

National Spinal Injuries Centre, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow Salary: £38,470

Contract:

Permanent. Full time Closing Date: 8th November 2026 at midnight.

Maintain high horticultural standards at all times to keep the garden looking it’s best all year round Work to the garden maintenance plan, agreed with the designer, to develop and implement seasonal growing plans to ensure all year-round colour Be a driving force in eco-conscious gardening, water management, and biodiversity initiatives Run a varied programme of gardening sessions both individually and in groups for people with spinal injuries

Working closely with the Patient Experience Manager to develop relationships with patients and families to ensure the best experience for them in the garden at every stage of their stay Maintain a consistent garden activities programme appropriate for the current patient group, ensuring everything is patient led and an alternative to the hospital environment. Lead on developing a gardening role for patients who are on delayed discharge and interested in pursuing their interest/skills Work with the Impact Assistant and wider team to monitor the impact of the garden Lead on the garden doors project for patients to have easier access into the woodland garden

Develop and maintain productive and collaborative relationships with NHS clinical teams, estates and voluntary services

Recruitment and training of new volunteers to support with the gardening Manage the team of garden volunteers to ensure the smooth running of the garden and all processes are adhered to

Work with Fundraising Managers and volunteers to develop opportunities to generate income in the garden through friends, corporate friends and third-party fundraising Support corporate sponsor events and fundraising opportunities and lead when it is gardening related Support with promotion on all local social media accounts and provide regular updates for content Represent the garden and charity at key events Lead all gardening related events Interviews with press/media as required

Ensure all administrative tasks associated with the role are monitored, completed and maintained, with assistance from the Garden Coordinator Assist with ensuring the garden rooms are kept clean and tidy at all times Manage the local garden budget Regular monthly reporting of gardening, maintenance and patient activities

Ensure the timely maintenance of all buildings, fixtures and fittings in the garden Organise and supervise any maintenance contractors Maintain all tools and equipment in safe working order Ensure all work in the garden is completed in a safe manner

Comply with all safeguarding policies and report any concerns to the Safeguarding Lead immediately This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check