We are hiring a Head Gardener for our Acadia Collection properties, located on the beautiful island of Mount Desert, Maine! **_

Job Summary:_**
This position supervises and provides day-to-day active leadership to an assigned team of gardeners at the Acadia Collection properties. This hands-on leadership role will be responsible for managing staff to complete all aspects of gardening and landscaping to ensure that resort properties maintain a high standard of beauty, functionality, and sustainability that enhances the guest experience. The Head Gardener will work closely with the Director of Landscaping Operations, the gardening and grounds staff, vendors and project managers to deliver exceptional indoor and outdoor environments to support the aesthetic and brand image for each of the Acadia Collection hotels and housing properties.

Necessary Skills and Attributes:

• A minimum of three years of experience in landscaping/gardening and some experience in supervisory or management role.
• Strong understanding of plant species, their growth habits and care requirements.
• Familiarity with seasonal care for plants, pruning and deadheading techniques.
• Understanding of landscape design and layouts, color schemes and plant combinations.
• Experience with hardscaping elements like paths, walls, and water features.
• Ability to supervise and lead a team of gardeners or staff, providing clear direction.
• Physical strength and stamina to handle tasks such as weeding, digging, planting, lifting and trimming.
• Strong decision making, communication and interpersonal skills and a willingness to learn.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
• Ability to work outside in varying degrees of temperature and weather conditions.
• Ability to perform manual tasks as necessary.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by hotel operations.
• A valid driver's license and ability to operate landscaping equipment. ** _

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Areas of Responsibility: ** __** ** _
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• Meet regularly with the Director of Landscaping to develop, plan and coordinate projects; review weekly and daily task lists; develop and review purchase lists; and discuss and coordinate staff.
• Lead, supervise, and motivate the landscaping team to deliver high-quality groundskeeping services while maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
• Actively work with staff to perform weekly and daily tasks such as but not limited to: planting, weeding, watering, staking, raking/blowing paths and driveways, cleaning leaves and debris, sweeping.
• Work closely with the Director of Landscaping in the maintenance of hotel grounds, including gardens, lawns, outdoor seating areas and lighting and other landscape features that complement the hotel's aesthetic.
• Perform regular inspections throughout assigned areas for disease or pest issues, plant or tree issues, aesthetic concerns, or other noticeable issues to address. Make notes accordingly and share with Director.
• Direct and/or assist staff with application of fertilizers, pesticides, disease prevention applications or other necessary materials to plants, gardens, turf.
• Monitor and manage the irrigation and landscape lighting systems, troubleshoot and report needed repairs to the Director.
• Ensure the landscaping contributes to a welcoming, peaceful, and visually appealing atmosphere for hotel guests, enhancing their experience during their stay.
• Work within landscaping budgets and track expenses.
• Oversee and train staff in all safety practices as they relate to gardening, grounds and equipment use and ensure any protective gear or materials are available.
• Plan and manage seasonal landscaping tasks, including planting, pruning and other seasonal transitions to maintain a beautiful environment year-round.
• Sustain our eco-friendly landscaping practices, such as water-efficient irrigation, use of native plants, and sustainable lawn care, to promote the hotel's commitment to sustainability.
• Liaise with external vendors and contractors for specialized services or products, ensuring timely delivery and quality standards are met.
• Oversee regular maintenance schedules, ensuring that outdoor spaces are well-kept and safe for both guests and staff, while adhering to all safety regulations.
• Provide guidance, training and feedback to landscaping team members, fostering their professional development and maintaining a high level of service.
• Be prepared to respond to and resolve any issues related to the grounds, such as storm damage or seasonal challenges. ** __
**· Any other duties assigned by Supervisor.

Success Factors: ** __**
• Ambassador of Joy: Embody and promote a culture of positivity and enthusiasm, ensuring that both guests and staff feel welcomed, valued, and inspired.
• Customer-Centric Focus: Understand and anticipate the needs of both internal and external guests, consistently exceeding expectations.
• Meticulous Attention to Detail: Deliver work that is precise, thorough, and up to the highest standards of luxury hospitality.
• Effective Communication: Provide clear, concise, and actionable information to ensure colleagues, guests, and stakeholders are well-informed.
• Ownership & Accountability: Take full responsibility for tasks, ensuring they are followed through to achieve the desired results.
• Foster Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively within teams, motivating others to sustain exceptional levels of performance.
• Build Strong Relationships: Establish trust and foster cooperation with colleagues, guests, and partners to promote mutual success.