An exciting opportunity has arisen for the appointment of an experienced Head Gardener to develop, design and market the gardens and grounds within the precincts of Canterbury Cathedral.

With over 1 million visitors each year to this World Heritage site, this is an excellent opportunity for a Head Gardener with drive and vision to dramatically improve the gardens and grounds as part of the overall visitor experience. This will require the development of a number of areas, the opening up of previously closed gardens and a clear marketing plan to make the Cathedral gardens a 'destination' of note.

Alongside developing a gardens strategy that complements and enhances the historic setting, together with leading and mentoring a small but busy team of Gardeners and Gardening volunteers, the role of Head Gardener will also include the development and management of a gardens visits programme. This will include guided tours and high value 'special' visits that the Head Gardener will host. A good reputation and network in the wider gardening world would therefore be highly desirable.

Overall, the post holder must have extensive and demonstrable experience in managing all aspects of an in-house professional gardening team and volunteers. Equally, s/he must have the vision to develop gardens in a historic setting, as well as the ability to communicate exceptionally well and work effectively with others within the Cathedral Community.

Given the wide-ranging requirements to market the Cathedral gardens nationally (and internationally), it will be preferable if the Head Gardener has a wider portfolio than just the Cathedral; a regular media presence and national-level gardening recognition are highly desirable. It is recognised that candidates will require time elsewhere to achieve these aims and the Canterbury Cathedral Head Gardener role is therefore set at 2 - 2.5 days per week.

For full details and to apply, please visit our website: www.canterbury-cathedral.org/get-involved/employment

Closing date for receipt of completed applications: Thursday 23rd July 2020

Interviews are expected to take place: Thursday 30th July 2020