Groundskeeper and Night Manager

Groundskeeper and Night Manager

A varied hands-on role at Ardington House, Oxfordshire

Ardington House is a Georgian country house and events venue near Wantage, Oxfordshire, and an award-winning venue, named Best Country House Wedding Venue. We are recruiting for a new role combining grounds, maintenance, event preparation and night management duties across our busy wedding and events season.

COMPENSATION PACKAGE

Salary of £34,500 per annum

Workplace pension with employer contribution

28 days’ paid annual leave per year, inclusive of bank holidays

HOURS

This is a full-time role, normally worked Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm. The role also includes approximately 40 event-night shifts per year, predominantly on Saturdays between April and October, typically from 5pm or 6pm until 1am. These shifts form part of the contracted hours and are balanced by equivalent time off during the working week.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Groundskeeper – Gardening assistance to the contract gardener, including using machinery for hedge cutting, mowing, strimming, log cutting and splitting, seeding, watering, leaf clearing, path and drive upkeep, flower care, weeding, planting, and general care of the gardens, grounds and machinery.

Maintenance – Fixing minor damage and general maintenance around the House, including fault finding, basic repairs, floor care, painting, varnishing, Basic knowledge of electrics and plumbing would be advantageous.

Event Preparation – Assisting the Operations Manager with wedding preparations including moving event furniture and supervising suppliers onsite

Night Manager - On event days, predominantly Saturday evenings between April and October, you will typically work from 5pm until 1am to monitor the event and manage the venue at close. You will act as the venue’s responsible duty manager, ensuring the safe and orderly departure of guests. Previous hospitality experience and confidence managing guests are essential.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

A current first-aid qualification is desirable

A full UK driving licence is essential, as the role includes occasional collection of supplies.

Confident with garden machinery and hand tools

Practical maintenance skills across trades

Calm, courteous and confident in managing guests late in the evening

LOCATION

Due to the rural location and late-night finishes, applicants must have reliable transport to and from Ardington House, near Wantage.