Head Gardener
About the job
- Proven experience as a Head Gardener or in a similar role.
- In-depth knowledge of horticulture and landscaping techniques.
- Strong leadership and managerial skills.
- Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with other departments.
- Attention to detail and a proactive approach to garden maintenance.
- Plan, design, and maintain the gardens and grounds of the retirement village.
- Manage and supervise a team of gardeners.
- Ensure the gardens are well-maintained and presentable at all times.
- Implement seasonal planting and landscaping projects.
- Coordinate with other departments to plan and execute outdoor events.
- Manage the garden budget and maintain an inventory of gardening supplies.
- Provide guidance and support to residents who have their own gardens within the village.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
About the company
Retirement Villages Group develops and operates housing-with-care communities for older people in the UK. It creates self-contained homes within larger, connected communities that offer access to local services and activities, aiming to support independent living with care options as needed. The product is a mix of residential housing and on-site wellbeing and care services designed to enable residents to live independently for longer while staying part of a community. The company differentiates itself by a long history (since 1981) as a dedicated developer and operator, a presence across 16 sites with plans to expand to 40 sites and 5,000 homes, and backing by BNP Paribas Asset Management Alts for long-term sustainable investment. Its goal is to provide positive life choices for older people through community, wellbeing, and flexibility, while benefiting the planet and the healthcare system for future generations.
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
Growth Equity (Non-Venture Capital)
Total Funding
$151.8M
Headquarters
United Kingdom
Founded
2005
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Yarrow opens at Paramount Place and The Willowbury in autumn 2026.
- ALUNA launched in March 2026 across Thrive Living communities, expanding monetizable amenity revenue.
- The Willowbury secured planning permission and 140 homes, proving demand for RVG's model.
What critics are saying
- West Malling faced objections from 48 residents and the parish council over greenbelt impacts.
- Planning application 26/01515/RD at West Malling stays open until October 8, 2026.
- Leadership turnover since Will Bax left in 2024 raises execution risk during expansion.
What makes Retirement Villages Group unique
- RVG blends retirement housing with public restaurants, terraces, and wellbeing suites.
- AXA-backed RVG builds large integrated communities, not isolated age-restricted apartment blocks.
- Thrive Living targets affluent downsizers with hospitality-led, neighborhood-facing amenities and branded experiences.
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Benefits
- Paid Vacation
- Parental Leave
- Professional Development Budget