Founded in 1673, Chelsea Physic Garden is London’s oldest botanic garden and one of the United Kingdom’s most significant horticultural institutions. Established by the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries to train apprentices in the identification and use of medicinal plants, the Garden has evolved over more than 350 years into an internationally recognised centre for horticulture, plant science, education and public engagement. Located on a four-acre site beside the River Thames, it cares for an exceptional living collection of more than 3,450 mapped plants and welcomes over 75,000 visitors each year. Through its distinctive combination of horticulture, heritage, science, education and culture, Chelsea Physic Garden inspires curiosity, improves wellbeing and demonstrates the essential role plants play in creating a sustainable future.

The Board is seeking an exceptional Director to lead the Garden through an ambitious new phase of development and transformation. The Director will provide strategic and organisational leadership across all aspects of the charity’s work and will be responsible for delivering the Garden’s long-term vision, masterplanning ambitions and financial sustainability. The successful candidate will bring a strong track record of senior leadership within a mission-led organisation, with experience in strategy development, stakeholder engagement, fundraising and income generation. They will be an inspiring and inclusive leader, as well as an outstanding ambassador and communicator. They will also bring the commercial acumen, energy and credibility to build partnerships, inspire supporters and champion the Garden’s work across the horticultural, heritage, cultural, environmental and educational sectors.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Chelsea Physic Garden on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference EBZDA. Alternatively email Belinda.beck@saxbam.com. Applications should be received by noon on Thursday 13 August 2026.