Head Horticulturist

Kiawah Island Club is seeking an experienced, creative, and passionate Head Horticulturist to lead the care, enhancement, and long-term vision of the Club's ornamental landscapes and gardens. This leadership role is responsible for maintaining the exceptional beauty of Kiawah Island Club's grounds through expert horticultural practices, innovative landscape design, and environmentally responsible stewardship.

The Head Horticulturist will oversee the planning, installation, and maintenance of ornamental landscapes across multiple Club properties while leading and developing a talented horticulture team. Working closely with the Director of Landscape Operations and other Club departments, this individual will help preserve the natural beauty and elevated aesthetic that define the Kiawah Island Club experience.

• Lead, coach, and develop the horticulture team while fostering a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Assist with recruiting, hiring, onboarding, training, and performance development of horticulture staff.
• Promote safe work practices and ensure compliance with all safety standards and departmental procedures.
• Lead by example through hands-on involvement in daily horticultural operations.

• Develop and oversee seasonal planting plans, landscape enhancements, floral displays, and ornamental garden installations.
• Maintain the health, appearance, and sustainability of ornamental trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, and specialty gardens throughout Club properties.
• Monitor plant health through integrated pest management (IPM), disease prevention, soil health management, and sustainable horticultural practices.
• Evaluate irrigation effectiveness and collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure optimal growing conditions.
• Identify opportunities for landscape improvements that enhance the beauty and character of the Club.
• Ensure all horticultural areas consistently reflect the exceptional standards of Kiawah Island Club.

• Collaborate with Club leadership on landscape improvement projects, renovations, and new installations.
• Recommend plant selections that complement Kiawah's unique coastal environment while supporting long-term sustainability.
• Manage seasonal color rotations and holiday landscape décor.
• Maintain horticultural records, planting schedules, and maintenance plans for all ornamental landscapes.

• Work closely with Golf Course Maintenance, Facilities, Clubhouse Operations, and other departments to coordinate projects and ensure seamless execution.
• Communicate regularly with leadership regarding landscape conditions, project progress, and operational priorities.
• Support Club events by ensuring grounds and gardens are maintained to the highest standards.