Head Gardener/Team Leader

Location: South Lodge, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RF

Are you an experienced horticultural professional with a passion for leading teams and creating exceptional landscapes? Join the Parks Department within Estates Services at the University of Oxford and play a key role in maintaining some of the UK's most iconic green spaces.

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.  

The University Parks team is responsible for maintaining the University's renowned parks, gardens and green spaces. Our work helps create inspiring environments for learning, research and recreation while supporting biodiversity and sustainability across the University.

What We Offer 

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as: 

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role 

As Team Leader/Head Gardener, you'll combine practical horticultural expertise with day-to-day leadership, ensuring our parks and landscaped areas are maintained to an exceptional standard. You'll lead teams undertaking a wide range of grounds maintenance activities, from seasonal planting and specialist pruning to lawn care, landscape improvements and site inspections.

You'll play an important role in organising daily work, promoting safe working practices and ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and to a consistently high standard. Acting as the senior team member on site when required, you'll support Supervisors by coordinating resources, mentoring colleagues and apprentices, and helping to drive continuous improvement across the service.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to further their leadership career while working within one of the world's most prestigious universities.

About You

You'll bring:

• A Level 2 qualification in Horticulture, Arboriculture or another relevant land-based discipline (or significant practical experience) together with a full UK driving licence.
• Significant practical experience in horticulture, landscaping or grounds maintenance, with strong plant knowledge and a commitment to developing your expertise.
• Experience leading teams safely and effectively, with a sound understanding of health and safety legislation, risk assessments and safe systems of work.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to plan work, maintain accurate records and build positive working relationships.
• Ability to mentor colleagues and apprentices while maintaining high standards of quality and customer service.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement.
• Your CV.
• The details of two referees.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 14 August 2026.

Interviews will take place in the week commencing 24 August 2026 and will be held face-to-face.

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