Deputy Site Manager

We are looking for two Deputy Site Managers to join Sunnyside Rural Trust, one based at Hemel Food Garden in Hemel Hempstead, and one based at The Orchard Nursery in Bedmond, near Kings Langley.

Both sites support young people and adults with learning disabilities and other vulnerable needs through meaningful training, horticulture, work experience and social enterprise opportunities.

Working closely with the relevant site lead, the Deputy Site Manager will help ensure the smooth and effective day-to-day running of the site. The role combines operational leadership, administration, horticultural and commercial coordination, team support and person-centred support for trainees.

The post holder will help create a positive, progressive and inclusive trainee experience, while ensuring the site is safe, well organised and delivers a high-quality service in line with Sunnyside Rural Trust values.

The Two Roles

Hemel Food Garden – Hemel Hempstead

Hemel Food Garden is a busy, multi-use site. Alongside trainee support and horticultural activity, the Deputy Site Manager will have a strong focus on administration and systems, including stock and pricing information, plant deliveries and transfers, off-site gardening contracts, scheduling, retail operations, and supporting the café and farm shop.

The Orchard Nursery – Bedmond, near Kings Langley

The Orchard Nursery is a smaller, unique horticultural site. The Deputy Site Manager will support the day-to-day running of the nursery, trainee support, plant production and sales, off-site gardening activity, and the delivery of engaging horticultural activities and small-group courses. The role also involves working positively with the Serge Hill Project and other partners.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Operational Support Support for Adults with Learning Disabilities Administration and Systems Horticultural and Commercial Operations Team Support and Development Health, Safety and Site Management Partnership and Community Working

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications, Knowledge and Experience:

GCSE English and Mathematics, or equivalent. Strong administrative, organisational and IT skills, including confidence using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook. Good understanding of supporting adults with learning disabilities or vulnerable groups, including safeguarding and person-centred practice. Knowledge of horticulture, plant retail or land-based environments. Experience working with adults with learning disabilities or vulnerable people. Experience coordinating schedules, rotas or operational systems and responding to customers or enquiries. Experience supporting staff or volunteers. Ability to work effectively in a busy operational environment and manage competing priorities.

Additional requirement for The Orchard Nursery role: A minimum of two years' horticultural experience, with RHS Level 2 qualification or working towards it.

Desirable Experience:

Experience of horticulture, plant retail, stock management systems or stock transfers. Experience supporting off-site contracts or service delivery. Experience within the charity, care or social enterprise sector. Experience using databases and other operational systems.

Essential Skills and Personal Qualities:

Excellent organisational, practical and administrative skills with strong attention to detail. Clear and confident communication with a wide range of people. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm and organised. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Compassionate, values-driven and committed to inclusive, person-centred practice. Reliable, approachable, positive, solution focused and willing to be hands-on. Collaborative and committed to improving opportunities for vulnerable people.

Other Requirements:

Full UK manual driving licence and willingness to drive work vehicles. Flexibility to work occasional weekends or evenings where required. Ability and willingness to work across different Sunnyside Rural Trust sites where necessary.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The post holder will promote a respectful, inclusive and culturally sensitive approach in all aspects of work, in line with the charity's values and policies.

General

This job description outlines the main responsibilities of the role and is not exhaustive. The post holder may be required to undertake other duties consistent with the nature of the position.

Please click apply and you will be redirect to our careers page where you can submit your Cover Letter and download our Application Form