The St Andrews Botanic Garden was founded in 1889 to research the relationships between ecology and evolution. Set in 18 acres, the garden holds an exceptional, diverse and documented botanical collection, including recently established living laboratories to research and demonstrate how novel ecosystems respond to climate change. Located in the centre of the iconic town of St Andrews, it benefits from links to leading research initiatives and interest from global tourism, and is in the process of refreshing its founding mission.
As the new Head Gardener, the successful candidate will play a leading role in developing the Botanic Garden as a pioneer in the field of novel ecosystem research and practice through the leadership for the Garden teams, growth of training programmes and the trialling of horticultural and conservation strategies. You will be responsible for the co-design of living laboratories, development of garden management plans, and overseeing the development of commercial opportunities through the plant nursery.
The ideal candidate will be well-versed in contemporary ecological and horticultural landscape practices and likely have more questions than answers. You will be a competent leader, able to identify and implement evidence-based guidance in a manner which incorporates the Trust’s vision and culture. Working as part of a small and friendly team, you will have good verbal communication skills and willingness to work towards common goals.
St Andrews Botanic Garden Trust is currently going through a period of growth with significant investment in the Garden’s infrastructure, resources and programmes. To this end, the successful candidate will be joining the Botanic Garden at an exciting time in its history as it refocuses on making its gardens, plants and expertise relevant and accessible to a wider audience.
- Salary: £35,000 – £37,500
- Hours: Full time
- Contract: Permanent
- Responsible to: Executive Director
- Application deadline: Wednesday, the 25th June 2025 (12 pm)
Full job description and application details can be found here. To discuss the role (or apply) please write to Dr Harry Watkins at jobs@standrewsbotanic.org.
