Landscape Manager

Context

Celebrate, conserve and explore the science, diversity and beauty of plants, nature and landscapes.

South African - British technology entrepreneur Mark Shuttleworth lives in the Isle of Man and has been investing in the SBG project for over a decade.  This year will see a significant increase in activity and, thus, in the creation of a number of new roles.

SBG will become globally recognised for curating its living collection in designed landscapes: shaped and constructed using natural rock and water features. The wider estate enhances the countryside by establishing and maintaining wildlife habitats that define specific areas. A programme of creating sustainable, regenerative systems for the environment and edible crops is underway and will continue to evolve.

The existing horticulture and landscape team constructs, creates, establishes and maintains all designed and countryside areas. The SBG nurseries source, propagate and produce from seed the majority of our living collection. The SBG continues to increase its scientific, public and educational activities with both national and international interest groups and partners. Members of the team are expected to participate in continuous training and self-development.

Role Summary

The Landscape Manager will require specific knowledge, skills and experience to fulfil their role and benefit the project. They will have specialist knowledge in at least one of: landscape construction; plant knowledge; or education and mentoring.

The Landscape Manager will have a genuine passion for their work, plants and landscapes. An inquisitive mind, attention to detail and the ability to innovate will lead to success in the role and help to develop the project and colleagues.

The Landscape Manager will actively oversee the preparation and construction of landscape features according to design and specifications, working with SBG staff, contractors or designers. Their technical knowledge will contribute to planning and completion of constructed features.

The role will report to one of the directors of Botanical Operations Limited, the operational arm of the SBG.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage work programmes to achieve specific objectives.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, designers, partners and visitors.
• Promote the SBG in your specialist areas and engage with specialist partners.
• Ensure adherence with the SBG Living Collection Mission and Policy.
• Contribute to decision-making, work planning and scheduling.
• Provide empathetic, professional leadership to team members.
• Operate construction and horticultural machinery and equipment.
• Participate in relevant training.
• Undertake work-related travel.
• Contribute to staff performance reviews and appraisals.
• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of health and safety principles, law and regulations and ensure adherence to them.
• Initiate, run and manage education, training and mentoring programs for SBG staff and visitors.
• Drive on public roads and estate land.

Skills, Qualifications and Experience

• Hold a relevant academic qualification at level 5 (HND) or, ideally, at degree level.
• Have a minimum of seven years’ experience in notable landscape, botanic or garden projects, such experience to include people management.
• Understand large landscape design and implementation in theory and practice.
• Demonstrate extensive knowledge of plants, nomenclature, cultivation and suitability.
• Be able to interpret planting plans and propose possible adjustments based on personal knowledge.
• Have a good understanding of soil science.
• Show dynamic and engaging methods of inspiring colleagues to engage, be productive and develop their abilities.
• Demonstrate drive and determination to achieve objectives, willingness to meet challenges, versatile problem solving and proactive work planning.

General

This role is based in the Isle of Man.

This role is intended to be full-time and largely based outdoors.

However, candidates who wish to work on a part-time basis may be considered.

The successful candidate will need to have a full, clean driving licence as the role involves working at different sites on the Island.