Head Grower Knepp Estate

Permanent position, 40 hours per week with some weekend cover.

About the role

Knepp Market Garden is a 3-acre, organic, commercial vegetable production growing for the on-site restaurant, shop, and a local wholesaler. The market garden is surrounded by the renowned 3,500 acre rewilding project that has been running for over 20 years. We reflect the principles of the rewilding project with regenerative growing practices, including use of cover cropping, living mulches and promoting biodiversity wherever we can.

The site is on heavy clay soil, which brings its own set of challenges, so familiarity with this soil type and a progressive approach to soil management is highly desirable. The site has enjoyed a record year in 2025 with fantastic cropping, quality and profitability. Planning work is underway for 2026 for 40 different crops, but the successful individual will have the opportunity to present significant changes for 2027 onwards if desired.

The growing team is four people strong, and you will work alongside three existing team members. There is the potential for a co-head grower if the skills dovetail with existing team members and this is desired by the applicant.

Responsibilities

• Lead on all aspects of site operations, including propagation and managing a diverse range of crops through all stages of growth to harvest.
• Ensure cropping for value and commercial viability of the operation.
• Manage a small team and handle basic HR practices (support available).
• Use IT systems for invoicing (Xero), logging hours (Workforce), and marketing (social media platforms).
• Collaborate with chefs and explore other routes to market (desirable).
• Manage SA organic certification (desirable).
• Grow and harvest cut flowers (desirable).
• Work with volunteers and engage with the public about growing practices (desirable).
• Operate a tractor and small-scale machinery (desirable).

Requirements

• Experience in commercial horticulture with practical experience in propagation and crop management.
• Understanding of cropping for value and commercial operations.
• Experience managing a small team and basic HR practices.
• Comfortable with IT systems (training available).
• Open-minded with a positive attitude toward working outdoors in all seasons.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in a small team.
• Good observation, attention to detail, precision, and speed.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to self-manage, and plan ahead.

Benefits

• 28 days paid holiday
• Pension
• Statutory sick pay
• Staff yoga and pilates
• Free vegetables for personal consumption
• Free hot drinks
• Discounts in restaurant and shop

Pay

£30,000-£35,000 dependent on experience, with the possibility of an end-of-season bonus.

Accommodation possible to be negotiated separately.