YPHA welcomes second management development cohort
The Young People in Horticulture Association (YPHA) has welcomed 12 young professionals to the second year of its Management Development Programme, which began at Pershore College on 29 September.
Led by Lindsay Muir of Cedar Associates, the bespoke nine-day course is delivered in three residential blocks for people already managing within horticulture who may not have received formal management training. Boyd Douglas-Davies also contributed to its development.
The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation is headline sponsor, with further backing from The GCA Trust, the British Ornamentals Association and YPHA’s Launch Success Challenge. This support has reduced the employer contribution to £650, including meals and accommodation, with each place subsidised by £1,000.
Demand was strong, with 44 applications for 11 open places, plus one place for a YPHA Operations team member acting as course coordinator. The opening block covered management identity, teamwork, accountability and strategic planning. Later sessions will address communication, conflict, productivity, coaching, staff development and managing change.
Josh Blaber of Crocus said the first block had sharpened his understanding of his management style and how to get the best from his team. Lucy Harris of Blenheim Garden Centre said the experience took her outside her comfort zone but had already given her practical ideas to apply at work.
The cohort returns to Pershore for Block Two from 3–5 November 2026 and completes the programme from 19–21 January 2027. YPHA said the residential format also helps delegates build a cross-industry peer network.
The Delegates
- Alexandra Hornsby, Garden King
- Andy Pennock, Haws Watering Cans
- Ben Peilow, Altnagelvin Garden Centre
- David Cheer, Cheers Nurseries Ltd
- Isobel Mills, Immediate Media Co. (Gardeners’ World Live)
- Josh Blaber, Crocus
- Keye Frith, WD Smith & Son
- Lucy Harris, Blenheim Garden Centre
- Mitch Wall, M&S Wilkinson Ltd (Port Sunlight Garden Centre)
- Olivia Blackburn, British Garden Centres
- Sam Fry, Ramsbury Manor Foundation
- Will Burks, The Gardens Group