Full Time

Head of Catering & Events

WHAT ARE YOU HERE TO DO?

As Head of Catering & Events, you are the face, voice, and operational backbone of all dining and events experience at The Boathouse Restaurant. You are responsible for everything the customer sees, hears, tastes and smells from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave — in a venue that is open 365 days of the year, adjusting its offering with the seasons.

You are tasked with designing menus, leading your team, and delivering excellent service and profitability across:

• A core offering of a breakfast and lunch café that transitions into evening table service, operating year-round but accommodating a midweek school group canteen service for breakfast and dinner for seven months of the year.
• Catering for groups, from family gatherings to corporate and academic retreats, where healthy and active lifestyles demand nutritious, filling menus to match.
• Statement events such as weddings, where your culinary background and operational experience combine to deliver a flawless guest experience.

The exceptional guest experience is built around the four pillars of the Loch Insh vision: Inspire, Nurture, Master, Sustain. Your role is pivotal in shaping a positive culture in the Catering and Events team that is legally compliant, commercially profitable, and consistently excellent.

You report directly to the Managing Director and attend Head of Department meetings as the senior Catering & Events representative. You line-manage the Head Chef directly; they carry day-to-day kitchen leadership and are accountable to you for food production, kitchen compliance, and food cost performance.

WHAT WILL YOU SPEND YOUR TIME DOING?

1. COMPLIANCE & SAFETY | Compliance & Licensing
• Ensuring all Catering operations comply with all relevant legislation including the Licencing (Scotland) Act 2005, HSE requirements, HACCP recording and food storage, and COSHH training.
• Maintaining the Personal Licence Holder rota to ensure a qualified licence holder is on shift whenever the bar is open and serving alcohol.
• Overseeing allergen management across kitchen and front-of-house: ensuring staff are trained and confident in allergen separation, communication, and response, and that allergen information is always current, accurate, and visible to guests.
• Maintaining all compliance documentation to EHO and HSE standards, audit-ready at all times.
• Ensuring the Head Chef maintains HACCP records, temperature logs, cleaning schedules, and CookSafe certification to the standard required for EHO inspection without prompting.

2. PROFITABILITY | Financial Management
• Owning all Catering & Events revenue lines and contributing to annual budget-setting for the department.
• Monitoring and managing labour costs against Pay-to-Sales targets (32.5% benchmark) through effective rota planning across both kitchen and front-of-house.
• Overseeing food cost of sales, working with the Head Chef to maintain a minimum 68% gross profit across food operations.
• Reviewing sales performance data and identifying opportunities to drive covers, average spend, and ancillary revenue.
• Ensuring all cash handling, EPOS reconciliation, and end-of-day reporting is completed accurately and on time.
• Participating in monthly financial performance reviews with the MD or Finance Manager.

3. INSPIRE | Service Operations & Standards
• Taking ultimate responsibility for the customer’s first impression and full experience of The Boathouse: visual appearance of the venue and staff, audible ambiance, and the presentation of every dish served.
• Leading and managing all FOH operations across multiple service models: café, à la carte, buffet, school group service, and private events.
• Setting and upholding service standards, ensuring every guest interaction reflects the Loch Insh brand and values.
• Managing table reservations, floor layouts, and service logistics to maximise covers and guest experience.
• Owning the cleanliness and presentation of all public-facing restaurant spaces, bar areas, and associated toilets.
• Acting as Premises Manager or nominated Licence Holder representative on shift, ensuring compliance with Licencing (Scotland) Act 2005 requirements at all times.
• Serving as the primary Catering & Events contact for wedding clients: managing pre-event meetings, communicating F&B arrangements, and ensuring flawless delivery on the day.
• Collaborating daily with the Sales and Marketing team to ensure bookings, events, and special requirements are communicated accurately and delivered seamlessly.

4. NURTURE | People Leadership & Team Development
• Recruiting, inducting, and developing your full team: from seasonal floor staff, bar team, and kitchen porters through FOH supervisors, CDPs and Sous Chefs, to your Head Chef.
• Preparing and publishing rotas at least a fortnight in advance, matching staffing to covers and events across both kitchen and front-of-house.
• Setting clear performance expectations for all direct reports, conducting regular reviews, and managing performance where standards are not met.
• Creating a positive team culture where staff are engaged, competent, and proud of the service they deliver.
• Ensuring regular shift briefings take place prior to each service and any change of service format.
• Coordinating cross-departmental staff deployment where required, in consultation with other Heads of Department.
• Developing the Head Chef’s management and financial capability alongside their culinary skills, with a view to building succession depth in the kitchen.

5. MASTER | Product Delivery & Client/ Stakeholder Communication
• Ensuring all food and beverage served to the customer has been prepared to the high standards Loch Insh aspires to be known for, with the Head Chef accountable for kitchen execution.
• Coordinating with school group representatives and group booking contacts to confirm dietary requirements, service logistics, and any specific needs well in advance of arrival.
• Managing guest complaints with professionalism and authority, resolving issues without escalating unnecessarily to the MD.
• Building relationships with clients and proactively identifying opportunities for upselling and loyalty.
• Developing and maintaining a suite of event and wedding menus that can be communicated and sold by the Sales team independently, without requiring your direct involvement in every client conversation.

6. SUSTAIN | Preserving Worthwhile Heritage & Leaving a Legacy
• Taking time to observe and understand existing systems, culture, and processes before implementing change.
• Consulting with your senior team, your peers in Sales and Marketing, and other Heads of Department before enforcing significant operational changes.
• Regularly updating Standard Operating Procedures for key activities conducted within your department.
• Ensuring all paperwork, SOPs, and licences are current, and building capacity within your team so that compliance does not depend solely on you.
• Reducing food and consumable waste week-on-week, sourcing thoughtfully, and running a department that is financially and environmentally sustainable.

Attractions & Events Supervisor

32 or 40 hours a week (four or five days)

What we do? With 1,000 acres of history, walks, wellness, shopping, food and adventure, all in a beautiful setting just a few miles from Edinburgh, Dalkeith Country Park is enjoyed and valued by locals and visitors from afar. Whether in search of adventure, play, thrills, food, shopping or restoration, we have something for all.

The role? In this hands-on and varied role, you will welcome visitors and help run activities in our Fort Douglas adventure playground, assisting with children’s birthday parties and other fun-filled seasonal events over Easter, Summer, Halloween and Christmas. Playing a key role in ensuring the needs of our visitors are met, you will respond to enquiries, coordinate bookings, support the coffee cabin, supervise colleagues, and provide general admin support. Regular weekend working is essential.

The person? Friendly, enthusiastic, with an organised approach and an eye for detail, the successful candidate will demonstrate initiative and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people. If you have customer facing experience, good IT & admin skills and an interest in the outdoors then we would love to hear from you. Hospitality experience would be an advantage.

Why work for us? We offer excellent benefits including private health cover, six weeks of holiday, gym and shopping discounts, cycle to work scheme, and wellbeing related support and resources.

How to apply? You’ll find more information about this vacancy on our website www.buccleuch.com/work-with-us/. Just click on the role and download the information pack for full details. If you decide that this is the role for you, click on ‘Apply Now’ and remember to include a covering letter along with your CV. Please include details of your preferred number of days in your application.

The closing date for applications is 23 April.

Please view our privacy policy at https://www.buccleuch.com/privacy-cookies/

Estate Worker/ Gardener

Job Title: Estate Worker / Gardener
Location: Jupiter Artland, Edinburgh
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
Job Type: Full-time & Part-time roles available.
Working Hours: 8am – 5pm. Flexible 5 out of 7. Weekends required

About the Role:
We are looking for an eager and hands on Estate Worker / Gardener to join our team on a unique estate near Edinburgh. Jupiter Artland is an inspiring blend of Art, landscape, creative events and visitor experience.
You will be part of the team responsible for maintaining the grounds of the private estate and public Artland to a high standard, ensuring all outdoor areas are well-kept, safe, and visually appealing throughout the year.
Key Responsibilities:
• Working as part of a team to maintain and enhance the Artland including small gardens, woodland areas, Rose Walk and wildlife pond.
• Planting, pruning, and seasonal maintenance including hedge cutting and lawnmowing.
• General estate upkeep including repairing pathways, roadways and fencing.
• Assist in the development of planting schemes to improve visitor experience
• Support projects and events across the estate when required
• Operating and maintaining machinery, equipment and tools
• General housekeeping and waste management
Requirements:
• Experience in horticultural, estate maintenance or gardener role
• Basic plant knowledge
• Flexible and able to adjust to changing priorities if required
• Passion for garden restoration, creativity and visitor experience
• Physically capable to carry out all gardening and maintenance tasks
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently
Desirable requirements (not essential)
• Full driving license
• Chainsaw certificate and confident in use of chainsaws
• Experience in basic hard landscaping tasks
• Experience in using larger machines
• Knowledge of tree safety assessment

What We Offer:
• Competitive salary based on experience
• On-site training and development opportunities
• Friendly and supportive working environment
• Opportunity to work in a unique setting

How to Apply:
Applications with a covering letter and full CV should be sent to Lee Millar, Head of Grounds:
leemillar@jupiterartland.org

Closing date: Friday 24th April 2026

Visitor Services Manager – Food & Beverage & Venue Hire

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

To support the conservation of Culzean Castle & Country Park by generating income through food and beverage, weddings, private & corporate events and always delivering the highest standard of visitor experience for all visitors and guests. This will be achieved by maintaining the highest standards of conservation and adhering to regional and national strategies, policies and procedures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Visitor Catering Experience
• Overall responsibility for the leadership and management and delivery of the catering facilities at Culzean Castle & Country Park. This includes, but is not limited to, the Home Farm Kitchen, Aviary Ice Cream parlour, Swan Pond takeaway outlet, Old Stables Coffee Shop and Stone Barn.
• Ensuring innovative ideas and current trends in catering are constantly being delivered in all outlets on site
• Setting objectives and being responsible for the overall, day-to-day running of the catering operations
• Leading and managing a team of staff; managing performance, recognising training needs and potential as appropriate
• Managing budgets – ensuring that, as a minimum, the financial targets agreed with, in line with the budget.
• Devising, costing and sourcing menu items and consistently looking at ways of maximising income through effective purchasing and creative merchandising
• Adhering to the sale of alcohol legislation, being a Premises Manager for the park.
• Regularly monitoring customer feedback, Mystery Visitor and Visit Scotland Audits and develop suitable action plans based on the results.
• Being visitor/customer focused by being visible, approachable, and quick to exceed expectations in fulfilling customer needs.

Venue Hire
• With the Operations Manager, property and NTS teams develop and deliver the strategy for venue hire to achieve and exceed annual income targets.
• Managing and leading the team on the sales and marketing of weddings, private events and accommodation bookings at Culzean by:
o Overseeing all aspects of the enquiry handling process for weddings, private parties, corporate events, and accommodation enquiries through to delivery and follow up activities.
o Delivering exceptional visitor experience for all guests at Culzean
o Development of packages for weddings and corporate events.
o Managing and supporting the hospitality sales team to ensure that sales targets are met, and events are delivered to the highest standards.
o Managing and liaison with suppliers/clients
o Designing and the production of relevant promotional material in agreement with local and national standards
o Leading in business development, generating new sales and relationships; including attending trade shows
o Proactively developing relationships with key industry partners including local hotels, VisitScotland Business Tourism, and destination management organisations/companies
o Ensuring that all administration, sales, finance and accounting process and procedures are complied with, and all relative information is accurately recorded.
o Ensuring that all events have a detailed itinerary/running order in place and distributed to relevant parties/departments.
o Actively evaluating and analyzing all events post-delivery to ensure continued improvement.

Health & Safety, Food Safety, the Environment
• Ensuring that the operation meets statutory requirements of Health and Safety, Food Safety and Environmental legislations and procedures.
• Conducting Food Safety and Health and Safety Risk Assessments and ensuring that all standards and procedures with regards to Hygiene and Safety are established and maintained.
• Recording and reporting all accidents within the location, adhering to location and company procedures
• Ensuring all equipment is well maintained and is in good working order.
• Making recommendations for renewal and replacement of equipment when required.
• Establishing and maintaining location cleaning schedules
• Ensuring that all Trust procedures and work instructions are fully understood and practiced by all employees.
• Promoting and encouraging environmental improvement initiatives as appropriate within the business

General Responsibilities
• Liaising with other managers at Culzean to ensure maintenance and access to other buildings is agreed as required for the purpose of holding events.
• Will be part of the out of hours on-call system for the property.
• Will be part of the Culzean leadership team, supporting the Operations manager and other managers across the park.
• Managing hospitality operations including the following:
o staff and volunteers (recruitment, induction, development, performance management) such that they are fully equipped and motivated to undertake their duties to the required Trust standards.
o budgets (setting, phasing, monitoring, pro-active and re-active adjustments) such that finances are sustainable within the context of the wider property budgets.
o health, safety and the environment in line with stated Trust policies and approaches to ensure the health and welfare of staff/volunteers and visitors,
o recognition of the Trust’s Environmental Policy with respect to sustainable activities, including energy and water use, recycling, use of “environmentally friendly” products for e.g. cleaning regimes, food-miles and waste etc;
o daily, weekly, yearly and longer-term operational workplans and reporting in the context of the properties’ statements of significance, annual operating plans and action plans (and contribution to these action plans) to ensure that activities are prioritized and planned to optimize the use of resources.
o administration to enable all activities within the post holders remit to be undertaken and recorded efficiently within Trust policies and procedures.
o assuming the role of “duty manager” on a rota basis as required and working as duty manager within the Eisenhower during peak periods and when holiday cover is required and acting as one of the main key holders,
• Undertake other duties as and when required to support the overall operation of Culzean as instructed by the Operations Manager and deputise for them as required. This will include regular weekends as Duty Manager for the property.

Manager – Mercat Tours International

Eden Scott is delighted to be working with Mercat Tours again, one of Edinburgh’s visitor attractions who offer award winning history walks and ghost tours around the city.

Their sister company is Mercat Tours International, a very different operation – an outbound tour operator working with UK schools travelling to the EU. They promise to provide each school trip with a first class learning experience.

Their passionate guides bring 20th century European history to life and take pupils on a journey through events that continue to shape the world that we live in today.

Their service takes school groups to France and Belgium and operationally manages every part of the trip – ferries, coaches, hotels, guides and works really closely with their teacher clients.

A vacancy has arisen as they are now seeking a Manager to head up the team and be responsible for all parts of the business.

Key Requirements
 Oversee the efficient and effective operation of Mercat Tours International (MTI) in the delivery of all services.
 Ensure a consistently high-quality visitor experience through accurate, timely, and efficient administration.
 Maintain and nurture client relations
 Manage the performance, responsibilities, and development of the MTI Admin Assistant, while ensuring external suppliers continue to deliver a high standard of service that supports MTI’s strong reputation.
 Manage the responsibilities of the MTI Guides, ensuring all essential materials and resources are prepared, maintained, kept up to date and shared.
 Create, implement, and monitor improvements to systems, processes, and operational practices to ensure the company runs as efficiently and effectively as possible, both operationally and financially.
 Consolidate existing business while proactively exploring opportunities for growth and new business development.
 Work collaboratively with the Marketing Executive to promote MTI’s services to a wider audience, including schools and adult tour groups.
 Responsible for forecasting and sales reporting as member of Leadership Team
 Identify opportunities for internal efficiencies, partnership working and sales growth
 Develop pricing strategy alongside Finance Manager to ensure competitive offer securing business and reputation

We are seeking an individual who has tour planning experience and is:
 Positive and effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills.
 Excellent organisational ability and meticulous attention to detail.
 Methodical, logical, and thorough approach to tasks.
 Ability to remain calm, focused, and responsive under pressure.

This role offers a salary circa £35k plus significant company benefits including many health & wellbeing and lifestyle benefits.

Eden Scott is dealing exclusively with Mercat on this vacancy, so to be considered for this unique opportunity, please submit their CV online and for an informal please call Sally on 07776 662506 or email sally.rae@edenscottt.com
This role is hybrid working.

Operations Manager

Eden Scott is delighted to be working with Active Kids Adventure Park, a 5-star children’s play center and visitor attraction nestled in the heart of rural Perthshire. Located just off the A9 adjacent to the village of Stanley, approximately 8 miles to the north of the City of Perth.

The park is open all year round and features an 11-acre outdoor park with a wide range of outdoor children’s activities and farm animals, plus an indoor bespoke tree-house themed playground, café and retail outlet.

There are over 50 outdoor attractions from giant jelly belly bouncing pillows and pedal powered go-karts to their 18m long pirate ship and zinging zip line, there’s so much for kids of all ages to enjoy.

The business underwent significant refurbishment in 2022 and re-opened in 2023 as a leading visitor attraction in the Perthshire area. They pride themselves on providing a high-quality experience for the 60,000 customers that they welcome to the park each year.

A newly created opportunity has arisen at Active Kids Adventure Park as they are now seeking an experienced Operations Manager to head up the team and be responsible for all parts of the business.

This role will lead an established team of employees and maintain their high standards across the business.

Key Requirements
• Management of all on-site operations on a day-to-day basis, together with the recruitment, training and development of all employees of the business
• A detailed approach to Health and Safety and industry legislation, ensuring full compliance of all site operations
• Effective marketing of the business, including the use of social media and the Active Kids website to promote the business
• Purchasing and managing stock within agreed budgets, ensuring cost efficiency and operational results
• Working closely with suppliers to establish relationships and develop business opportunities
• Development of new initiatives and events to increase footfall and profit across the business, along with the potential wider development of the park and site.

What We’re Looking For:
This role requires previous experience within the leisure and hospitality industry and an understanding of commercial performance, legislative compliance, health and safety and leading and developing a large team. The successful candidate will have excellent interpersonal and communication skills, a creative outlook, a problem-solving approach and the desire to deliver a positive experience to all those who visit the park.

This role offers a salary of £45,000 with significant company benefits including 9% employer paid pension contribution and death in service.

In addition, the business can provide accommodation: a nearby three bedroomed house or a one bed flat at a negotiable rate.

Eden Scott is dealing exclusively with Active Kids Adventure Park on this vacancy, so to be considered for this unique opportunity, please submit their CV online and for an informal please call Sally on 07776 662506 or email sally.rae@edenscottt.com

Closing date is Friday 1st May 2026 at 5.00pm
Interviews w/c 11th May 2026

Ranger Apprentice

JOB PURPOSE

The role of Ranger Apprentice is a fantastic opportunity for a person to learn, train and experience real work in a professional conservation and estate management environment.

The National Trust for Scotland cares for Glencoe National Nature Reserve, a world-famous mountain landscape which attracts millions of visitors every year. Glen Coe is renowned for a varied mosaic of habitats, from summit to sea level. Its biodiversity is recognized by multiple designations, including Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation. It is also located in a Special Protection Area for Golden Eagles and the Ben Nevis & Glencoe National Scenic Area.

As an integral part of the Ranger team, our Ranger Apprentice will get involved with a range of practical conservation tasks – helping to create the conditions for healthy, sustainable, resilient habitats, and reducing the pressure popularity can place on the landscape at this busy reserve.

You will also engage with the public – out in the Glen and at our Visitor Centre – sharing your passion for this special place, encouraging responsible outdoor access, growing support for our charity’s work and generating the income we need to care for our properties. You’ll help us maximise our impact through excellent customer service and site knowledge, taking pride in presentation and communication.

The Apprentice will also study for a Modern Apprenticeship (SVQ in Estate Management at SCQF Level 6) with Rural Skills Scotland.

MORE ABOUT THE APPRENTICESHIP

You will take direction from the Senior Ranger, with two NNR Rangers and a Stalker Ranger providing day-to-day supervision. You will also work alongside other property staff.

The apprenticeship will be run in partnership with Rural Skills Scotland, who will support the successful candidate through their SVQ undertaking regular observations to allow the apprentice to meet the necessary evidence requirements.

The apprenticeship is for a fixed period of 18 months during which the successful candidate will be mentored and undertake relevant vocational training.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

 Support the rangers with practical habitat conservation and improvement tasks, including vegetation and woodland management, and invasive-species control.
 Support the estate’s deer management plan, from counting deer and assessing herbivore impact on habitats, to helping our stalker out on the hill as a ghillie if the candidate is interested. There may be scope for the candidate to learn to shoot if that is a direction they wish to go.
 Assist with survey and monitoring programmes, helping to evaluate and inform conservation management decisions.
 Help with the maintenance and presentation of estate infrastructure, including footpaths, fencing and signage.
 Participate in estate patrols at busy times and locations, including weekends and evenings, to engage with tourists, outdoor activity enthusiasts and campers, championing a “leave no trace” culture and providing practical advice based on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
 Welcome customers in our Visitor Centre Info Hub in a friendly, efficient and knowledgeable manner, answering queries and providing information about the property, facilities and the local area.
 Contribute to the development and delivery of educational and outreach activities that bring alive our stories, including social media content, on-site displays, self-guided trails, guided walks, talks, events or other hands-on activities.
 Promote the National Trust for Scotland and the benefits of Trust membership or donations.
 Always maintain excellent standards of site and personal presentation, ensuring work is undertaken in a safe and appropriate manner, wearing correct uniform, name badges, or PPE as required.

Visitor Engagement Assistant (Outreach)

You will be an ambassador for Aberdeen Science Centre (ASC), an excellent communicator and an effective team player who has the ability to multi-task and be flexible when working in a variety of areas within Aberdeen Science Centre.

Your main role will be to interact with all visitors through our Community Engagement Programme in a friendly, outgoing manner ensuring they have a 5* experience at all times. This flexible role will cover engagements on the exhibition floor, outreach sessions, workshops to schools, public groups and birthday parties.

Delivery of ASC activities in the North of Scotland will form a key part of this role, so a full valid driver’s licence is essential. This port holder will be expected to work flexibly within the team, with a willingness to work evenings and weekends as required.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

General

• Provide a high level of customer service at all times, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable and inspiring experience.
• Deliver ASC’s shows, workshops and birthday parties to a variety of audiences including communities, schools and public groups, including set up and cleaning. This would include an adult audience.
• Be the first point of contact for all community outreach events, maintaining relationships with our community partners and proactively seek development opportunities.
• Ensure exhibition areas are clean, tidy and in working order, reporting any faults found.
• Support the development of STEM activities for ASC’s programme.
• Carry out reception duties, including cash handling when required.
• Contribute to review, evaluation and reporting processes for engagements as required.
• Ensure spaces are set up in advance as required, for pre-booked groups.
• Any other duties as deemed appropriate and reasonable.

All science centre staff are expected to:
• Perform their own general clerical duties including, but not limited to, typing, copying, mailing and filing.
• Ensure all current legislation including but not limited to GDPR and Health and Safety is followed at all times.
• Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of client, staff and agency information.
• Consider the day to day environmental impact of their work and act to reduce accordingly i.e. turn off unwanted lights, reduce paper usage etc
• Follow any other reasonable duties as assigned by their line manager or Chief Executive.
• To attend conferences and other learning opportunities as required.

The above is intended to provide a clear but concise statement of the present MAJOR TASKS and ACTIVITIES of the job. It is not an exhaustive list of all its detailed duties. As a term of your employment, you may be required to undertake such other duties as may reasonably be required of you in the post mentioned above.
Aberdeen Science Centre reserves the right to amend the Job Description in consultation with the employee.
Aberdeen Science Centre pursues a policy of equal opportunities in the appointment and promotion of staff.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Desire to work within the charity sector.
• Creative and innovative approach to work.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Confidence with ICT, with an ability to keep up with advances in technology.

Essential Competencies
• An enthusiasm for a large variety of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic topics.
• Skilled listener with great people skills.
• Strong verbal and written communicator, ability to liaise effectively with a variety of audiences.
• High regard for customer care and service.
• Good team worker, flexible and adaptable with a willingness to work across multiple areas of the organisation.
• Willingness to be flexible on hours, with regular evening and weekend work required.
• Ability to work unsupervised, on own initiative with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and organise own schedule.
• Knowledge and competence in ICT including MS Office suite.
• Ability to follow script and adapt to create meaningful engagements with diverse audiences.
• A full driving licence

Desired Competencies

• Previous experience in a customer focused environment.
• Experience of speaking in front of a camera.
• Experience in presenting to audiences of all ages.
• Access to a vehicle

Keeper, Global Arts, Cultures & Design

This senior leadership role at National Museums Scotland offers an incredible opportunity to shape the future of the Global Arts, Cultures and Design department, managing the understanding, development, organisation, and public access to the collections.

Overseeing a diverse collection spanning material from prehistory to the present day from Asia, Africa, the Americas, Oceania, and Europe, you will lead a dedicated team of curators and researchers in redefining the modern museum’s relationship with its global heritage.

You will drive strategic innovation and ensure these world-class collections are accessible through cutting-edge digital programmes and national outreach.

Crucially, you will represent the organisation on the international stage, engaging in vital dialogues including those that address the histories and legacies of colonialism.

For a visionary professional committed to inclusive curatorship and global cultural exchange, this position provides the platform to lead transformative change within one of the UK’s most prestigious heritage organisations.

Garden Trainee

JOB PURPOSE

The Garden Trainee role at Threave Garden will provide the post-holders with development in a broad range of work-based practical horticultural skills, over the course of a year spent working as part of the team there, supplemented by written coursework and plant identification tests. Training will be based primarily around the content of the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture, but additional enhancements will also be available. Our aim is to take people who have undertaken a horticultural apprenticeship, an academic horticultural qualification or who have proven practical gardening experience and to develop them further into the rounded skilled, craft professional gardeners that the heritage garden sector, including the National Trust for Scotland, requires.

WHAT WE OFFER

The year at Threave comprises paid day-to-day work in the garden alongside practical training and assessment of skills, knowledge and behaviours. The RHS Level 2 training is supplemented by several assessed written assignments designed to enhance trainee learning. This includes fortnightly plant identification tests (20-25 plants), keeping a daily diary, completing plant profiles and written reports for any trips which may be organised during the year.

The Garden Trainees are overseen by our teaching staff of Gardener Instructors, seasoned experts in their fields who have worked in a wide range of gardens themselves. The garden has three department areas: the grounds (lawns, hedges, herbaceous borders, woody plants, alpines, hard landscapes, aquatic, and bog), the walled garden, and the glasshouses. Although most of the time will be spent in the grounds, the Garden Trainee will work in each of these areas, moving between them on a rota basis, to ensure in-depth training across the seasons. Trainees will work alongside the Gardener Instructors, other garden staff and volunteers, receiving hands-on tuition and practical experience. There will be some limited classroom time, however this is primarily a practical role where trainees will spend 95% of their time working in the garden. Study and assignments will be completed largely in their own time. Trainee only shared accommodation within easy walking distance is available for rent.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

While in the garden the Garden Trainee will be formally line managed by the Head Gardener and will have the support, guidance and direction from other members of staff they are allocated to work alongside. The employment is for a fixed period of 1 year, subject to continued progression on the programme with acceptable practical performance.
Trainees will be expected to take responsibility for their learning which will include significant out of hours study, practice of skills and/or project work.

ABOUT THE GARDEN

The School of Heritage Gardening, based at Threave Garden was formed in 1960, shortly after the National Trust for Scotland took ownership of the property. For over 65 years we have been teaching horticultural skills and techniques to aspiring professional gardeners. Former trainees have gone on to have successful careers in the industry, many choosing to stay with the Trust.

Threave Garden is perfectly suited for a range of training requirements, having been created over the years to accommodate a variety of horticultural situations. The garden has a large and diverse plant collection set within an extensive landscape and includes features such as a rock garden, fruit and vegetables, ponds, naturalised bulbs, woodland, orchard, nursery, lawns, herbaceous beds, mixed borders, and glasshouses. This purposefully broad array of garden landscapes, plants and features ensures that trainees are able to receive an extensive and well-rounded experience, covering many aspects found in a career in horticulture.

Threave is an approved centre to deliver Royal Horticultural Society qualifications, one of only a handful across Scotland.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, EXPERIENCE & KNOWLEDGE

This is a development role intended to take the Garden Trainee to competent professional gardener level for the heritage garden sector through the vehicle of the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture.

Essential:
• A practical horticultural qualification at SVQ Level 2 or equivalent is preferred as a minimum, however places are also open to those with academic horticultural qualifications or who have proven practical gardening experience.
• Prior achievement at SCQF Level 5 or above is required to underpin learning
• Commitment to out of hours study and practice of skills
• Enthusiasm for horticulture with a positive approach to undertaking fundamental horticultural tasks
• Level of computer literacy, to produce well-prepared diaries and reports
• A good level of communication skills to converse clearly with colleagues and visitors
• Proof of the right to work in the UK
• Able to follow clear instructions competently
• Willing to work outside in all weathers and undertake physically demanding tasks
• Commitment to completing the training year (August to August), including RHS practical examinations held three times during the year
• Time management skills in being able to work flexibly and to a deadline
• Good people skills enabling strong relationships both externally and internally, to be built and maintained
• Able to use tools and equipment as required for the role

Desirable:
• Proven ability to work flexibly as part of a team
• Prior experience in a customer service role – our gardens are open to the public almost every day!
• Prior knowledge of relevant Health and Safety procedures
• Prior experience of horticultural machinery

DIMENSIONS AND SCOPE OF JOB

The Garden Trainee
• will work as part of the garden team increasing their knowledge and experience of duties such as soil cultivation, weeding, establishing and maintaining plants and displays, propagation, turf care, using tools equipment and machinery, and much more. This will include physically demanding activities in all weathers
• will take responsibility for their learning which will include significant out of hours study, skills practice and/or project work
• will be required to meet regularly with Trust staff to discuss progress, assessment of which is constantly monitored in order to provide developmental feedback
• will take part in additional training offered by the Trust
• will be based in Threave Garden but may be given opportunities to visit or work in other Trust gardens
• will work 5 days out of any 7, which may include weekends and evenings helping with events and other activities
• will work closely with rest of the property team, and the area Gardens & Designed Landscapes Manager
• will be expected to interact daily with other staff, volunteers and visitors and may be asked to meet donors who are supporting the Trust with finance
• will be expected to participate, contribute, and feature in promotional activities/material for the School and the Trust
• is not a budget holder but will be responsible for submitting any expense claims in good time and in line with allowances

Food & Beverage Supervisor

JOB PURPOSE
The Visitor Services Supervisor primary role is to assist the Visitor Services Manager and provide operational and supervision of the food & beverage department, comprising of historic tea rooms, private dining and event spaces at The Mackintosh Tearooms, in line with the Trust’s policies, procedures and performance standards and targets to contribute to the enjoyment of the property by visitors and members, and help ensure commercial, financial, and conservation objectives are achieved.

The Visitor Services Supervisor at a Trust property plays a pivotal role ensuring that the management objectives are achieved through excellent customer service, and, with delegated responsibility for catering, functions and events and duty management is very often the ‘face’ of the Trust to visitors and suppliers. As such, s/he directly influences public perceptions of the Trust and is crucial to developing and maintaining the property’s local and national reputation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES
• Supervising/undertaking the day-to-day operation of the property and environs to ensure excellent customer/visitor experience.
• Line management of Visitor Services Assistants and volunteers to deliver an exceptional visitor experience for all guests.
• Overseeing and ensuring that the sale of alcohol legislation is adhered to.
• Being visitor focused by being visible, approachable, and quick to exceed expectations in fulfilling customer needs. Promote a culture of a ‘warm welcome’ to visitors and ‘exceptional service, every time.
• Working closely with other managers across the Property to deliver a programme of visitor events, which increase visitor numbers, drive secondary spends and support overall Property targets.
• Responsibility to ensure that all policies and procedures related to the day-to-day financial administration such as cash/till reconciliation and day end reports are adhered to.
• Compiling staff rotas in line with staffing budgets and imputing and signing off working hours for payroll.
• Assisting with ordering stock and stock control and carrying our monthly stock takes.
• Handling guest inquiries and complaints and resolving any issues rising promptly.
• Working closely with the team to deliver a programme of visitor events to increase visitor numbers, drive secondary spends and support the overall Property targets.
• Working with the Functions & Events Supervisor and Creative Learning Supervisor to deliver the catering offer for weddings, hospitality, corporate events and creative leaning & education groups.
• Duty management and oversight/maintenance of the property to include visitor services, functions, admissions and retail offer when acting as Duty Manager.
• Deputising for the Visitor Services Manager/Operations Manager and providing cover for other Visitor Service Supervisors as required.
• To support the property social media content to generate interest, engagement and help drive visitors
• To manage staff and volunteers; (recruitment, induction, development, and performance management and sickness management) , ensuring they are fully equipped and motivated to carry out their duties to the required Trust standards.
• Taking responsibility for key holder management and security of the Property.
• Ensure Health & Safety procedures, emergency procedures, and environmental procedures are adhered to.
• To promote a Health & Safety culture across the property, ensuring the team work within the property’s ‘Safe System of Work’ to reduce risk of incidents and accidents to volunteers, employees, and visitors.
• Completion of all cash handling processes and reconciliation as per the Trust’s policies and processes and when required.
• Assist the Visitor Services Manager with Recruitment; induction; development; and management of all visitor services employees and volunteers such that they understand and are equipped to fulfill their roles to the standards required and that they feel valued, respected and supported.
• To actively support and promote the National Trust for Scotland as a memberships organization and the benefits of becoming a member to all visitors to achieve the membership KPIs.
• Undertake any other tasks that may be reasonable requested
• Scottish Personal Licence Holder’s Certificate and Personal Licence

A significant amount of time spent in the role is non-desk-based, requiring good time management, and the role-holder can expect that a substantial part of the working day will be spent front of house, providing operational delivery of the food & beverage offer.

Will be required to work flexible working patterns and hours including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. As part of the role and as a senior member of the team, there will be an expectation that the post holder would attend work at short notice (if operational needs demand and circumstances allow)

This role is one for which the duties and responsibilities require you to undertake a criminal records check.

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