The Head Gardener will be responsible for the curation, management, care, and interpretation of gardens at Federation Square and Laak Boorndap.
We are seeking a passionate and curious gardener, a lifelong learner able to apply their knowledge to this role as it develops.
In addition to horticultural qualifications, you will have experience in the curation and care of display gardens, particularly with successional, multi-layered diverse plantings, and demonstrated horticultural experience, including the use of tools, equipment and machinery.
This is a public-facing role where character and attitude will be key to fostering positive relationships and enhancing experiences for all visitors and stakeholders within the precinct.
The role requires the ability to manage relationships and experiences that arise in a dynamic public environment with professionalism and approachability.
Department: Fed Square
Work Type: Ongoing - full time
Job Function: Trades and Services
Work Location: Melbourne - CBD
Reference: VG/FEDSQ/CE/1839695
Closing Date: 27-Jan-2025
Salary Range: $109,730 - $121,247
Contact: Katrina Webb
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Organisation Overview MAP Co is a state government entity responsible for the delivery of the Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation project as well as the operations, programming, promotion and maintenance of Federation Square and the new Melbourne Arts Precinct public spaces.
The Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation Project will boost Melbourne's standing as a creative and cultural capital and help to harness the immense potential of one of the most vibrant arts corridors in the world.
It will deliver The Fox: NGV Contemporary, a new gallery dedicated to contemporary art and design; significant upgrades to Arts Centre Melbourne's Theatres Building including the State Theatre and Laak Boorndap, an 18,000 square meter garden and public space in the heart of the precinct.
About the Role The Head Gardener will be responsible for the curation, management, care, and interpretation of gardens at Federation Square and Laak Boorndap.
The role is situated in the Programming and Interpretation Team and combines gardening, programming, interpretation and management.
We are seeking a passionate and curious gardener, a lifelong learner able to apply their knowledge to this role as it develops.
In addition to horticultural qualifications, you will have experience in the curation and care of display gardens, particularly with successional, multi-layered diverse plantings, and demonstrated horticultural experience, including the use of tools, equipment and machinery.
As a high-quality communicator, you will have demonstrated skills in the interpretation and programming of gardens.
You will be a leader who works well with a variety of internal and external stakeholders and communities and has experience managing small teams.
The role will be required to operate across distinct phases of the development of Laak Boorndap and the implementation of the Fed Sq Greening Masterplan and therefore have evolving responsibilities and accountabilities.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities: During the design and construction phase of Laak Boorndap, work closely with builders, designers and precinct partners on the development of a garden care management model that includes procurement and supply chains for succession planting, tools and manuals, documentation, and staffing and resourcing approaches.During the implementation of the Fed Sq Greening Masterplan, work closely with internal teams to deliver the masterplan and develop a garden care management plan for Fed Square.Supervision, curation and ongoing management of Laak Boorndap and gardens at Fed Square, ensuring high standards of horticulture, display and visitor experience.Conduct general horticultural maintenance, including planting, pruning, mulching, weeding, and irrigation across both sites.
Build and sustain relationships with key community and industry stakeholders.Develop and deliver programs, interpretative materials and activities in collaboration with the Programming and Interpretation team that inspire and engage visitors, developing a sense of ownership across diverse communities, providing practical gardening advice and building an understanding of issues.Lead and manage the team of horticultural staff, to ensure that the gardens are sustained to the highest standard of function, display and presentation.Utilise where required consultants and contractors to support and deliver required gardening works.Manage contractors for specific garden projects and management operations as appropriate.Support the Programming and Interpretation team and partners in the installation of artworks, performances and activities in the gardens.Represent MAP Co and its gardens at relevant forums and networking events, and develop relationships with partners organisations.Maintain an annual garden budget, monitoring performance and ensuring efficient cost controls.Maintain accurate records of plantings, maintenance schedules, and plant health.Minimum Requirements: Demonstrated experience in horticulture and gardening, particularly in curating and managing public spaces.Experience working with a diverse range of plants, with a focus on high-value amenity horticulture.Experience in building, mentoring, and leading a team, with a focus on collaboration and professional development.Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage respectfully with diverse stakeholders, including visitors, colleagues, and community members.Experience in delivering public education programs, workshops, or interpretive initiatives.Physical fitness and capacity to undertake manual tasks in an outdoor environment across all seasons.Strong organisational and record-keeping skills.Recruitment process You can read more about our recruitment process at this link: https://fedsquare.com/careers Please let us know in your cover letter if you require any reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process or the role.
MAP Co is committed to ensuring that all applicants are afforded an equitable opportunity to be considered for our roles.
MAP Co will undertake background checks on the successful candidate in line with requirements set by the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner (OVIC).
Applications Kindly note that applications will be reviewed for short listing throughout the advertisement period, so we encourage applicants to apply without delay.
Please provide a covering letter (maximum 1 page) and your resume (maximum 4 pages).
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