Gardens Manager

SUMMARY:
GARDENS MANAGER
Stellenbosch: An esteemed, well-established wine estate in the Helderberg Winelands, known for its exceptional hospitality offering and beautifully curated grounds, is seeking to appoint a Gardens Manager to join their team. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a visually striking and sustainably managed estate environment.

POSITION INFO:
Purpose of the Role
To oversee the planning, development and ongoing maintenance of the estate’s gardens and landscaped areas, ensuring high horticultural standards are upheld. The role will further focus on sustainable practices, soil health, and the cultivation of seasonal produce in support of the estate’s culinary offering.

Key Responsibilities Include but Are Not Limited To

• Maintain and enhance all gardens, lawns and landscaped areas to a high aesthetic standard
• Implement seasonal planting plans and contribute to long-term landscape development in line with the estate vision
• Monitor plant health, identifying and addressing pests, diseases and general garden conditions
• Oversee vegetable, herb and orchard production to ensure consistent, high-quality yield
• Collaborate closely with the culinary team to align crop planning with seasonal menu requirements
• Manage harvesting schedules and ensure a continuous supply of fresh produce
• Lead composting initiatives and implement soil improvement programmes
• Apply sustainable and environmentally responsible horticultural practices
• Oversee and optimise irrigation systems, ensuring efficient and water-wise usage
• Monitor water consumption and identify maintenance or system improvement needs
• Supervise and support the garden team, allocating daily tasks and overseeing projects
• Liaise with suppliers, nurseries and external service providers where required

• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant horticultural experience, ideally within a wine estate, farm or hospitality environment
• Relevant qualification in Horticulture, Agriculture or Landscape Management advantageous
• Solid knowledge of plant care, soil management, irrigation systems and sustainable practices
• Practical experience in vegetable cultivation, composting and regenerative techniques
• Strong planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage seasonal workflows
• Good communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments
• Hands-on approach with a strong work ethic and willingness to work outdoors
• Young, energetic, and passionate about sustainable horticulture
• Proactive, hands-on and solution-driven
• Valid drivers’ licence is non-negotiable