Garden Maintenance Team Leader

Location: London / Surrey
Salary: £32,000 - £36,000 per annum (DOE)

Join a Team Passionate About Exceptional Gardens

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Garden Maintenance Team Leader to join our dedicated gardening teams, maintaining a stunning portfolio of high-end gardens across Central London, Surrey, and the surrounding areas. These gardens demand meticulous attention to detail and the highest horticultural standards.

About You

You'll have a strong background in garden maintenance with proven experience in leading a team. Ideally, you'll also hold a relevant qualification in horticulture (e.g. RHS Level 1 or City & Guilds), although this is not essential. You will take pride in nurturing beautiful outdoor spaces, while confidently managing staff, liaising with clients, and upholding our standards of excellence.

Your Responsibilities

Team & Project Management

Lead a team of 2-3 gardeners delivering exceptional garden care

Liaise with clients, designers, and the Garden Aftercare Manager

Provide updates, raise concerns, suggest improvements

Support the development of aftercare programmes and schedules

Ensure effective use of time and team resources

Uphold and enforce Health & Safety standards

Horticultural Duties

Lawn care (mowing, feeding, etc.)

Maintenance of borders and containers

Pruning, trimming, and specialist plant care

Watering and irrigation system management

Application of chemical/biological pest control

Garden feature maintenance (fountains, ponds, etc.)

Soil testing and conditioning

Cleaning and maintaining hard landscaping surfaces

What You Bring

✅ Essential Skills & Experience

Minimum 3 years' experience in a similar team leader role

Excellent plant knowledge and horticultural understanding

Skilled in using horticultural equipment (mowers, trimmers, scarifiers, etc.)

Experience with irrigation systems and water feature care

Strong leadership, organisation, and communication skills

Confident using IT for communication and scheduling

Full UK driving licence

⭐ Desirable Qualifications

PA1/PA6 spraying certificates

RHS/City & Guilds Level 1 or higher in Horticulture

Emergency First Aid at Work certification

Knowledge of Health & Safety protocols

Experience in biological pest control

What We Offer

Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm (with paid overtime)

️ 20 days holiday + 8 bank holidays (+ up to 5 extra days after 5 years)

Birthday off as a paid holiday

Ongoing training and career development opportunities

Free uniform and PPE

Company bonus scheme

Company vehicle provided

The chance to work on prestigious Show Gardens