Palm House Activity Programme Manager


Location
Kew Gardens, Richmond
Hours
Full Time (hours not specified)
Salary
£61,337 per annum
About the Role
Kew is embarking on a major reimagining of its iconic Palm House, creating a vibrant tropical rainforest that highlights the extraordinary biodiversity of these ecosystems, their crucial role in regulating the global climate, and the urgent need for their protection. From January to August 2026, Kew will be working on a Delivery Phase plan for submission to the National Lottery Heritage Fund. We are seeking a highly experienced and dynamic professional to lead the development of the Activity Plan. In this pivotal role, you will work closely with senior Kew staff and project consultants to manage all aspects of the delivery plan, ensuring Kew delivers a compelling application on time and on budget. You will bring proven experience in preparing and delivering National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) Activity Plans for major projects. With strong leadership, communication, analytical, and writing skills, you will navigate a complex organisation with confidence and unite diverse stakeholders around a shared vision for the reimagining of the Palm House. You will also line-manage the Activity Plan Coordinator, who will lead on stakeholder consultation and benchmarking. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to work for Kew, collaborating with expert teams dedicated to delivering outstanding learning and interpretation experiences and engaging diverse audiences. The role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements. Interviews are scheduled for 27 & 28 November (first round) and 9 December (second round).
About Us
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all, and managed sustainably. We achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
Benefits
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme, and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme, free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst. We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
Experience
Proven experience in preparing and delivering National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) Activity Plans for major projects. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and senior staff.
About you
Strong leadership, communication, analytical, and writing skills. Confident in navigating complex organisations and uniting diverse stakeholders around a shared vision. Ability to line-manage and support team members effectively. Highly motivated, dynamic, and able to deliver projects on time and within budget.
Qualifications
Not explicitly stated, but relevant experience in heritage, project management, or related fields is essential.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew


