RHS Seeks New Plant Health Head
After the departure of the former plant health director, the Royal Horticultural Society is now on the lookout for their next head of plant health. To ensure the success of the UK’s leading charity dedicated to the promotion of horticulture and garden plants, the RHS needs an experienced and dedicated individual to lead their plant health division.
Overview of the Role
The Head of Plant Health is a senior role within the RHS, covering a wide range of responsibilities. They will be responsible for leading the strategic direction of plant health initiatives, as well as overseeing all of the RHS’s plant health operations.
The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of horticulture, plant health and plant biology, and a strong ability to deliver successful strategies for their division. They will be expected to manage and develop the RHS’s staff, resources and budget, collaborating with other departments and stakeholders from across the industry.
The ideal candidate should have excellent communication and organisational skills, and be able to think strategically and make decisions independently.
Qualifications and Experience Required
- Degree or equivalent in plant/crop health, plant biology, horticulture or a related field
- Experience in leading a team of professionals
- Experience in developing and delivering strategies
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- Flexibility and ability to work in a dynamic environment
Key Responsibilities of the Role
- Strategic Thinking: Develop and deliver strategies to protect and enhance the health of the RHS’s plants, implement plans to meet organisational objectives and provide direction to the team on operational activities.
- Management: Manage the resources and budget of the plant health division, recruiting, leading and motivating staff, setting goals and reviewing performance.
- Collaboration: Develop strong relationships and collaborate with other departments, stakeholders and industry experts to ensure the smooth running of the division.
- Technical Knowledge: Possess a deep understanding of horticulture, plant health and plant biology, in order to make informed judgements and decisions.
Benefits of the Role
- Opportunity to lead one of the UK’s leading charities in the promotion of horticulture and garden plants
- Generous salary and benefits package
- Development opportunities and training
- Flexible working hours
How to Apply
- Visit the RHS website for more information.
- Submit your CV and cover letter via the online form.
- A member of the RHS recruitment team will be in touch to arrange an interview.
Selection Process
Candidates should expect a two-stage process which includes an initial telephone/video interview and then a second face-to-face interview in-person at the RHS offices in London, or via video-link. The selection process will also include a series of assessments and assessments of suitability.
Deadline
The deadline for applications is 12th May 2020. All applications should be received no later than this date.
Remuneration
The RHS offers a competitive remuneration package for the successful candidate, including a base salary and other relevant benefits.
Further Information
For further information about the role and to apply, please visit the RHS website.
Conclusion
The RHS is looking for an experienced individual to fill their vacant Head of Plant Health role. The role requires a deep understanding of horticulture and plant science, excellent communication and organisational skills, strategic thinking and the ability to work independently. The successful candidate will benefit from a generous remuneration package, as well as the opportunity to lead one of the UK’s leading charities in the promotion of horticulture and garden plants.
If you feel that this role is suitable for you, please visit the RHS website before 12th May 2020 to submit your application.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is seeking a new Plant Health Head to join its team of experts in its Science and Collections department.
This role will include a wide range of responsibilities within the Horticulture arena, such as developing and implementing a variety of research programs to improve the health and sustainability of the UK’s plants, as well as advising the RHS on policy issues and running the Society’s plant health advice system.
The successful candidate should have an understanding and knowledge of plant health and the ability to implement scientifically grounded practices related to plant health. They should also have excellent communication and project-management skills, as well as experience with Government regulatory requirements.
The Plant Health Head will be a key part of the RHS’s aim to create a sustainable and healthy environment for plants, through the use of scientific research and information. Their work will ensure that careful decision making is taken when it comes to the introduction and control of pests, diseases and weeds.
The role may involve travel throughout the UK to assess plant health issues, as well as working in conjunction with Agronomists, Plant Pathologists and Biosecurity specialists.
To be eligible for the position, a PhD in Plant Health, Plant Biology or a related field, plus at least five years relevant experience is required. This should include an excellent grasp of UK plant health regulations, procedures and protocols.
The successful applicant will ideally be a member of the RHS, though this is not a pre-requisite for the role.
The role is based at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, near London.
The closing date for applications is 11 May, 2021. For further information and to download the job description, visit the RHS website.
