Careers at Tates
We are always on the lookout for talented, driven and dedicated people to join our team.
Jobs at South Downs Nurseries | Jobs at Old Barn Garden Centre | Jobs at Mayberry Garden Centre | Jobs at Paradise Park Garden Centre
South Downs Nurseries
South Downs Nurseries and Garden Centre, based in Hassocks, is our largest centre. From our nurseries here, we grow many of the plants we sell in our garden centres. Our plant area is one of the largest in Sussex and is supported by a dedicated team of plant experts. Here you will find a large choice of indoor and outdoor living and gift ranges to inspire you. The Malvern Show Village showcases the most comprehensive range of quality garden buildings available in the UK.
Garden Centre Branch Manager – Full Time
Description:
As Branch Manager, you will be responsible for the overall performance and management of the site. You will ensure high standards across all departments, including retail, plant areas and our catering business, while delivering an outstanding customer experience.
Working closely with Directors and Buying teams, you will drive sales, maintain operational efficiency and lead a high-performing team.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily site operations, including maintenance and health & safety compliance
- Manage retail, plant and catering areas, ensuring excellent presentation and plant care
- Drive sales through effective merchandising, stock control and seasonal displays
- Deliver exceptional customer service and professionally resolve customer queries
- Manage stock control, deliveries and operational processes
- Oversee cash handling, reporting and administrative duties
- Recruit, lead and develop colleagues to ensure strong team performance
- Provide support across additional departments, including our Nursery and Holiday Lodges operation
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Proven General management experience within large non-food retail or a garden centre environment
- Strong leadership and team development capabilities
- Basic horticultural knowledge
- Commercial awareness with a track record of driving sales
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- Good understanding of health & safety
What we Offer
- Competitive salary with potential performance related bonus
- Supportive, family-run working environment
- On-site parking
- Staff discount scheme
- Opportunities for career development
Duration
Full-time (Sporadic weekend working as the business requires).
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Kitchen Assistant – Full Time
Description:
We are looking for a chef to work in our busy kitchen at South Downs Nursery. This is a fast-paced role, preparing meals in line with our branded menu.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with food preparation, plating and presentation.
- Serve food and beverages to customers in a polite and professional manner.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen and service areas.
- Wash dishes, utensils and catering equipment as required.
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times.
- Support the catering team in setting up and clearing down before and after service.
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Previous catering, hospitality or kitchen experience essential.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment.
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused.
Duration
Full time with alternate weekend working rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Plant Area Supervisor – Full Time
Description:
We are looking for a Plant Area Supervisor to help manage the day-to-day operation of our plant department. This varied role includes maintaining and caring for plants to the highest standard and assisting customers with plant sales advice. You will also deputise for the Department Manager during holidays and days off as required.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert advice to customers on plant care and selection, ensuring their needs are met
- Maintain the highest standards of plant care, ensuring plants are healthy, well-watered, and presented attractively
- Maintain a positive, empathetic, and professional attitude toward customers at all times
- Handle customer queries and complaints professionally, escalating unresolved issues to the Plant Area Manager
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage with customers and colleagues
- Strong knowledge of plants and horticulture, with a passion for customer service
- High attention to detail in plant care, merchandising, and operational tasks
- Ability to lead a team in a fast-paced environment
- Basic numeracy and IT skills for point-of-sale (POS) systems and inventory management
Duration
Full time.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Old Barn Garden Centre
Old Barn Garden Centre and Nursery became part of the Tate family business in 2018 and has since been completely redeveloped into a destination garden centre with a 200 seater restaurant and coffee shop. Our Garden and Lifestyle shop provides inspiration for your home and garden and sources many unusual items to create an individual style and elegance. Because we grow our own plants, you will always find friendly knowledgeable staff on hand to help at our extensive nursery. You will also find a wide range of garden buildings, hot tubs and conservatories from our specialist concession partners.
Coffee Shop Assistant – Full Time
Description:
We are looking for a Coffee Shop Assistant to work in our busy coffee shop & restaurant. This varied role includes serving customers, preparing hot drinks, clearing tables, serving food to tables as well as some kitchen cover as required.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing a warm welcome to all customers with smile, meet and greet at all times.
- Responding promptly to customer enquiries
- Cleaning and clearing tables
- Keeping your area and customer areas clean, safe and tidy
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times
- Communicating and coordinating with colleagues as necessary
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Previous catering, hospitality experience in a similar role is preferred, but not essential as full training will be provided.
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused
Duration
Full time with alternate weekend working rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Coffee Shop Assistant – Part Time
Description:
We are looking for a Coffee Shop Assistant to work in our busy coffee shop & restaurant. This varied role includes serving customers, preparing hot drinks, clearing tables, serving food to tables as well as some kitchen cover as required.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing a warm welcome to all customers with smile, meet and greet at all times.
- Responding promptly to customer enquiries
- Cleaning and clearing tables
- Keeping your area and customer areas clean, safe and tidy
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times
- Communicating and coordinating with colleagues as necessary
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Previous catering, hospitality experience in a similar role is preferred, but not essential as full training will be provided.
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused
Duration
Full time with alternate weekend working rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Kitchen Assistant – Part Time
Description:
We are looking for a chef to work in our busy kitchen at Old Barn. This is a fast-paced role, preparing meals in line with our branded menu.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with food preparation, plating and presentation.
- Serve food and beverages to customers in a polite and professional manner.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen and service areas.
- Wash dishes, utensils and catering equipment as required.
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times.
- Support the catering team in setting up and clearing down before and after service.
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Previous catering, hospitality or kitchen experience essential.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment.
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused.
Duration
Part time with alternate weekend working rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Delivery Driver – Full Time
Description:
You will be responsible for ensuring timely and efficient customer deliveries while providing exceptional service. You will also support other operational areas of the Garden Centre, contributing to warehouse duties, site maintenance, and assisting in various departments as needed.
Key Responsibilities
Delivery Operations:
- Safely and efficiently carry out customer deliveries, ensuring all deliveries meet the highest standards of customer satisfaction.
- Use the company’s delivery module in compliance with established policies and procedures.
- Follow your assigned delivery route, ensuring all scheduled deliveries are completed on time each day.
- Cross-check each delivery drop against the customer delivery note to ensure accuracy, addressing any discrepancies immediately with your Line Manager.
- Conduct a quality check of each delivery drop to guarantee customer satisfaction, escalating any issues promptly.
- Provide friendly, professional customer service during deliveries, fostering a positive experience.
Vehicle Management:
- Perform daily vehicle checks to ensure the vehicle is in safe working condition and report any issues to the Line Manager.
- Adhere to all legal and company policies related to vehicle operation and road safety.
Warehouse & Site Maintenance:
- Assist with warehouse operations, including loading, unloading, and organising stock.
- Participate in site maintenance and cleaning duties to ensure a safe, tidy, and welcoming environment.
- Support stock movement and replenishment throughout the garden centre.
Customer Service & Team Support:
- Provide excellent customer service across all duties, both on and off the shop floor.
- Step into other departments or roles within the garden centre during busy periods or as assigned.
- Assist with cash-out duties or customer-facing tasks as required.
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Strong organisational and time-management skills to ensure delivery routes are completed efficiently.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills, ensuring a positive customer experience.
- A proactive and flexible approach to supporting various tasks across the garden centre.
- Attention to detail to ensure accurate deliveries and safe vehicle operations.
- Physical fitness to handle stock movement and deliveries safely and effectively.
Additional Requirements:
- A full, clean driving license suitable for the vehicle type is required.
- Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays, and occasional evenings as part of a rota.
- Willingness to assist in other areas of the garden centre as needed.
Duration
Full Time.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Mayberry Garden Centre
As a city-based garden centre, Mayberry Garden Centre offers an excellent range of our most popular gardening and plant products, alongside unique gift and lifestyle ranges. Here, you will also find a selection of our best-selling garden buildings on display.
Maintenance Assistant – Part Time
Description:
You will be assisting our high-quality and efficient maintenance service throughout the site, ensuring the health and safety of customers and staff at all times. This includes addressing maintenance needs, carrying out compliance-related checks, maintaining the overall functionality and appearance of the site, and carrying out general and garden maintenance as well as cleaning storage areas and equipment as required.
Prerequisites
Key Skills and Attributes:
- Good general DIY and maintenance skills are essential for this role
- Experience with basic carpentry and plumbing is preferred
- Problem solving skills
- Care and attention over workmanship with pride in your work
- Organising and storing of equipment, products and props – some of which require careful handling and storing
- Excellent communication skills
- Flexibility in managing priorities
Duration
Part Time – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Kitchen Assistant – Part Time
Description:
We are looking for a chef to work in our busy kitchen. This is a fast-paced role, preparing meals in line with our branded menu.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with food preparation, plating and presentation.
- Serve food and beverages to customers in a polite and professional manner.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen and service areas.
- Wash dishes, utensils and catering equipment as required.
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times.
- Support the catering team in setting up and clearing down before and after service.
Prerequisites
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Previous catering, hospitality or kitchen experience essential.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment.
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused.
Duration
Part Time – With alternate weekend working rota – various shifts available.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Paradise Park Garden Centre
Paradise Park Garden Centre, based in Newhaven, opened its doors to the public in 1989. At Paradise Park, you will discover a large plant area and a knowledgeable team of friendly staff who are able to help you find everything you need for your home and garden. Alongside the large garden centre, you will find some of the finest gardens in Sussex, with several small lakes, waterfalls, fountains and plant houses.
Garden Centre Assistant / Merchandiser / Giftware Department – Full Time
Description:
As a Garden Centre Assistant / Merchandiser, you are the first point of contact for customers, providing exceptional service and expert guidance to ensure they find the perfect products for their needs. You are also responsible for maintaining a high standard of merchandising, stock control, and department upkeep to contribute to a pleasant and professional shopping experience.
Key Responsibilities
Customer Service:
- Greet customers warmly upon entering and ensure a welcoming atmosphere
- Assist customers in selecting and purchasing products, offering expert advice and recommendations
- Handle customer queries and complaints courteously and efficiently, escalating issues to your Line Manager when necessary
- Provide product demonstrations or advice as needed, ensuring customer confidence in their purchases
Till Operations:
- Operate tills efficiently, accurately processing customer transactions including cash, card, and other payment methods
- Provide excellent customer service by assisting customers with purchases, answering queries, and offering product recommendations
- Ensure all till areas are kept clean, organised, and adequately stocked with necessary supplies such as bags and receipt rolls
- Handle returns, refunds, and exchanges in accordance with company policies, ensuring customer satisfaction
- Maintain a friendly and professional demeanour while serving customers, addressing any issues promptly and courteously
Merchandising & Stock Management:
- Maintain creative and visually appealing displays that adhere to company standards
- Ensure all stock is well-organised, clean, and appropriately merchandised
- Produce accurate and visually appealing Point of Sale (POS) materials following company templates
- Keep pricing, product descriptions, and promotional signage up-to-date and error-free
- Monitor and report stock levels, including shortages, overstock, damages, and customer requests, to your Line Manager for efficient restocking
Prerequisites
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage with customers and colleagues
- Strong attention to detail in merchandising and product presentation
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and meeting customer needs
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
- Basic numeracy and IT skills for POS systems and inventory management
Additional Requirements:
- Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays and occasional evenings as part of a rota
- Physical fitness to handle stock movement and assist with deliverie
Duration
Full Time with alternate weekend working rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Coffee Shop Supervisor – Full Time
Description:
We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Coffee Shop Supervisor to join our busy coffee shop and restaurant team. This is a hands-on role supporting the Coffee Shop Manager in the day-to-day running of the business, ensuring excellent customer service, high operational standards, and a positive team environment.
Key Responsibilities
Working alongside the Coffee Shop Manager, you will:
- Lead, motivate, and support the team to maintain high standards of service and performance.
- Assist with staff training, development, and onboarding of new team members.
- Manage ordering, stock control, stock rotation, and minimise waste.
- Ensure accurate labelling, dating, and storage of ingredients.
- Complete food safety and operational checks in line with company procedures.
- Maintain excellent food quality, cleanliness, and hygiene standards.
- Support stocktakes, budgets, and cost control measures.
- Follow and maintain allergen procedures and documentation.
- Help ensure the smooth and efficient running of daily operations.
Prerequisites
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Previous experience in a restaurant, café, or food service supervisory/management role.
- Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
- A passion for hospitality and delivering excellent customer service.
- Good knowledge of food hygiene, food safety, and health & safety regulations.
- The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Duration
Full Time with alternate weekend working rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Kitchen Assistant – Full Time
Description:
We are looking for a chef to work in our busy kitchen in Newhaven. This is a fast-paced role, preparing meals in line with our branded menu.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with food preparation, plating and presentation.
- Serve food and beverages to customers in a polite and professional manner.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen and service areas.
- Wash dishes, utensils and catering equipment as required.
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times.
- Support the catering team in setting up and clearing down before and after service.
Prerequisites
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Previous catering, hospitality or kitchen experience essential.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment.
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused.
Duration
Full Time with alternate weekend rota.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Kitchen Assistant – Part Time
Description:
We are looking for a chef to work in our busy kitchen in Newhaven. This is a fast-paced role, preparing meals in line with our branded menu.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with food preparation, plating and presentation.
- Serve food and beverages to customers in a polite and professional manner.
- Maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen and service areas.
- Wash dishes, utensils and catering equipment as required.
- Follow food safety and hygiene guidelines at all times.
- Support the catering team in setting up and clearing down before and after service.
Prerequisites
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Previous catering, hospitality or kitchen experience essential.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment.
- Punctual, reliable and customer-focused.
Duration
Part Time weekends.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Attractions Cashier – Part Time
Description:
As a till operator for our attractions, you are the first point of contact for customers, providing exceptional service and expert guidance to ensure they enjoy their experience. You are also responsible for ensuring that promotional offer vouchers are redeemed correctly and that guests are informed of any necessary information about the attractions on that day.
Key Responsibilities
Customer Service:
- Greet customers warmly upon entering and ensure a welcoming atmosphere
- Assist customers in using their promotional vouchers and passes
- Handle customer queries and complaints courteously and efficiently, escalating issues to your Line Manager when necessary
Till Operations:
- Operate tills efficiently, accurately processing customer transactions including cash, card and other payment methods
- Provide excellent customer service in general
- Ensure all till areas are kept clean, organised and adequately stocked
- Handle returns, refunds and exchanges in accordance with company policies, ensuring customer satisfaction
- Maintain a friendly and professional demeanour while serving customers, addressing any issues promptly and courteously
Prerequisites
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage with customers and colleagues
- Attention to detail
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and meeting customer needs
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, even during busy periods
- Basic numeracy and IT skills for inventory management
Duration
Part Time – Sundays.
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
Financial Controller – Full Time
Description:
The Financial Controller will lead financial operations across a multi-site group of garden centres, supporting retail performance, stock management, and operational efficiency. The role combines strong financial control with hands-on commercial support to site managers. The role also requires oversight of all financial aspects of a property rental portfolio ensuring rental income, service charges, insurance and utilities are charged to tenants.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee monthly management accounts across all garden centre locations and produce draft annual financial statements
- Responsible for budgeting processes
- Monitor gross margins, stock levels, and shrinkage across product categories
- Manage working capital, supplier payment cycles, and credit control processes
- Partner with site managers to improve financial performance and cost control
- Manage property portfolio accounting (rent, service charges, utilities, insurance)
- Ensure accurate revenue recognition and cost allocation per property/project
- Monitor capital expenditure and development appraisals
- Provide financial insights to support management decisions
- Lead and develop the finance team
- Manage banking relationships
- Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, and external stakeholders
- Ensure compliance with tax, VAT (including partial exemption), payroll, and statutory requirements
Key Requirements
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Experience in retail, multi-site, or FMCG environments
- Strong analytical and commercial mindset
- Advanced Excel and financial analysis skills
- Leadership experience managing finance teams
Desirable Qualities
- Experience with property development or investment property portfolios
- Experience in business partnering with operational teams
Personal Attributes
- Commercially driven, hands-on and adaptable in a fast-paced retail environment
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
- Detail-oriented with high degree of accuracy
Duration
Full time
Location
Head Office in Newhaven
Further Details: Thank you for taking the time to complete an application form online. We will contact you if you are shortlisted for an interview.
