Horticulture Manager

DIVISION: Facilities & Infrastructure

Basic Function: Reporting to the Director of Facilities & Infrastructure, this position is responsible for
the management of all aspects of horticulture, arboriculture, grounds maintenance, materials collection,
and landscaping including the development and maintenance of plant displays complimentary to the
animal collection. Skilled administrative, supervisory, and technical knowledge is also required. This
position will assist and provide support in implementing the Strategic Plan.

Responsibilities

Effectively manages and directs the horticulture and materials collection functions developing objectives
for these areas while ensuring efficient utilization of the human and financial resources to achieve
established performance targets.

Monitors and records time and attendance of supervisory staff.

Interviews, selects, trains, supervises, directs, schedules, disciplines and evaluates assigned staff.

Ensures the timely and efficient preparation of all required reports and statements and the proper
maintenance of all required records.

Ensures timely completion of work orders.

Ensures and maintains AODA compliance for site accessibility.

Prepares and administers annual budget for the Branch/Units.

Monitors and keeps accurate records of all repairs and projects performed by the units.

Oversees the greenhouse operations and the propagation of plants from seeds and cuttings.

Oversees the preparation and maintenance of grassed areas, naturalized areas and flower beds.

Co-ordinates and oversees project work and designs, liaising with contract landscape architects.

Oversees the purchase of all plants, trees, and shrubs, equipment and supplies required by the
Horticulture Branch.

Responsible for ensuring acceptable standards of appearance and cleanliness are maintained
throughout the Zoo, and that all grounds equipment is properly maintained.

Oversees the co-ordination of snow removal, garbage and litter pick up, composting and recycling
programs, in all outdoor areas.

Participates as a member of committees directly affecting branch operations and schedules.

Prepares and submits written reports, proposals and recommendations as required.

Responsible for ensuring compliance with WHMIS, the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the
Toronto Zoo Safety Policies; ensuring all employees work in a safe manner, with the appropriate
protective equipment, and that all accidents and hazards within areas of responsibility are promptly
investigated and corrective action taken.

Assists guests on-site as required and ensures excellent customer service is provided by Zoo staff.

Responsible for representation of the Branch both on and off site including co-ordination and
implementation of group tours, educational seminars, community outreach and conservation initiatives.

Other special projects and duties as required by the Director.

Qualifications

Must be a graduate of a recognized school of horticulture, arboriculture, landscape architecture and/or
general gardening or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Must have a minimum ten (10) years of experience in a related field, five (5) years of which has been at
the supervisory or management level.

Previous experience supervising in a unionized environment preferred.

Possess herbicide, insecticide, and fungicide spraying licences valid in the Province of Ontario.

Thorough knowledge of gardening equipment including the operation of heavy equipment.

Fully knowledgeable of current techniques in horticulture, arboriculture and landscaping.

Must possess effective interpersonal and oral and written communications skills.

Must possess an unrestricted Class G driver’s licence along with a good driving record.

Previous experience in preparation and control of a major budget.

Proven ability to effectively lead and instruct staff.

Demonstrated ability to organize assignments and follow up to completion.

Must be knowledgeable in the use of computerized programs and systems, including MS Word, Excel
and E-mail.

Must possess working knowledge of WHMIS legislation and the Occupational Health & Safety Act.

Must be willing and able to work weekends and holidays.