We are seeking an exceptional Estate Grounds & Gardens Manager to join us in the long-term creation and management of a beautiful private family estate and elite equestrian facility in Kent.

This is not a standard gardening role.

The estate spans approximately 18 acres and includes mature grounds, a 5-acre woodland, multiple ponds, formal gardens, paddocks and the future development of a high-end equestrian facility for Horses Smith — a luxury showjumping and breeding brand.

Our vision combines timeless English estate elegance with Mediterranean-inspired landscaping and exceptional attention to detail. Planned projects include:

•⁠ ⁠Mediterranean courtyard gardens
•⁠ ⁠Formal planting schemes
•⁠ ⁠Water features and pond fountains
•⁠ ⁠Luxury swimming pool and entertaining areas
•⁠ ⁠Greenhouse/orangery spaces
•⁠ ⁠Woodland and pond management
•⁠ ⁠Premium equestrian facilities including arena, stabling and landscaped yard areas

We are looking for someone who takes genuine pride in creating and maintaining beautiful spaces to an exceptionally high standard.

The Role

This is a hands-on position suited to someone experienced in managing high-end grounds while also contributing physically day-to-day.

Responsibilities will include:

•⁠ ⁠Managing and maintaining all estate grounds to an exceptional standard
•⁠ ⁠Lawn, hedge and formal garden care
•⁠ ⁠Woodland and pond management
•⁠ ⁠Planting, irrigation and seasonal horticultural planning
•⁠ ⁠Care and management of mature and specimen planting
•⁠ ⁠Working alongside specialist contractors and landscapers
•⁠ ⁠Helping deliver major future landscaping projects
•⁠ ⁠Supporting the development and presentation of the equestrian facilities
•⁠ ⁠Managing paddock presentation, fencing and external yard standards
•⁠ ⁠Operating estate machinery and equipment
•⁠ ⁠Assisting with general estate presentation and upkeep
•⁠ ⁠Feeding and assisting with the care of family animals where needed

The estate is family-oriented and home to young children, dogs, rabbits and horses, so we are looking for someone warm, trustworthy and personable as well as highly skilled.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who is:

•⁠ ⁠Passionate about horticulture and estate presentation
•⁠ ⁠Experienced within private estates, luxury properties, gardens or country houses
•⁠ ⁠Knowledgeable across a wide variety of planting styles and species
•⁠ ⁠Confident managing contractors and larger projects
•⁠ ⁠Practical, hands-on and detail-focused
•⁠ ⁠Organised and self-motivated
•⁠ ⁠Comfortable around children, dogs and animals
•⁠ ⁠Experienced operating grounds machinery and estate equipment
•⁠ ⁠Proud of achieving immaculate standards

Experience with Mediterranean planting, formal gardens, water features, woodland management or equestrian estates would be highly advantageous.

About Us

This is a privately owned family estate led by owners with a genuine passion for gardens, animals and beautiful spaces.

The role offers the opportunity to become part of a long-term vision and help create something truly special over the coming years.

We are looking for someone who values craftsmanship, detail, pride in their work and enjoys building exceptional environments that are both beautiful and lived in.