Head of Gardens and Landscape
Tarland, Aberdeenshire
Full-time, permanent
Salary circa £50,000 per annum
An exceptional opportunity to lead the future of one of Scotland’s distinctive historic gardens.
The MacRobert Trust is seeking an inspiring, forward-thinking horticultural leader to care for and develop the magnificent 17-acre RHS Partner Gardens at Douneside House, while helping shape horticulture, training, sustainability and community engagement across our wider estate.
The opportunity
- Provide strategic and hands-on leadership for the gardens and designed landscapes, preserving their heritage while planning restoration, planting and future improvements.
- Lead, coach and develop the gardens team and trainees, and oversee our respected RHS-approved Horticultural Training Scheme, welcoming up to six trainees each year.
- Champion biodiversity, sustainable growing and community involvement, including the Alastrean Woods Reimagine Project to transform approximately 100 acres of forestry into a community nature reserve.
- Work with Douneside House to create outstanding guest experiences through garden tours, events, workshops and seasonal produce.
- Manage budgets, resources, safety and partnerships, contributing to the Trust’s 10 Goals for 10 Years strategy and Destination Douneside ambitions
About you
You will bring substantial practical horticultural experience, including managing established gardens or significant planted landscapes; RHS Level 3 or equivalent demonstrable experience; strong technical knowledge; proven team leadership; and experience of planning work and managing budgets. You will be an engaging, collaborative leader with a commitment to sustainability, education and community benefit.
What we offer
30 days’ annual leave rising to 38 days; 9% employer pension; income protection and life insurance; discounted food and stays at Douneside House; supported professional memberships; paid volunteer leave and matched fundraising; and enhanced family-friendly policies. Accommodation is not provided.
How to apply
Please email your CV and a short supporting letter (maximum two pages) to recruitment@themacroberttrust.org.uk by 8 November 2026.
First-stage interviews: week commencing 16 November 2026.
Second-stage interviews: week commencing 30 November 2026.