Garden Center Manager

Job Purpose

To oversee all aspects of the garden center's operations, ensuring profitability, customer satisfaction, and a thriving plant and product environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and motivate the garden center team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Oversee daily operations of the garden center, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and customer service.
• Develop and implement strategies to achieve sales goals and maximize profitability within the garden center.
• Manage inventory levels, ensuring appropriate stock of plants, gardening supplies, and related products, while minimizing waste and shrinkage.
• Oversee merchandising and visual displays to create an attractive and appealing shopping experience for customers.
• Maintain a high level of plant health and quality, ensuring proper watering, fertilization, pest control, and overall care.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to customers on plant selection, care, and gardening techniques.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures, as well as relevant safety regulations.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth and improvement within the garden center.
• Collaborate with other departments within Costellos ACE to ensure seamless operations and a positive customer experience.
• Manage the garden center's budget and expenses effectively.
• Address customer inquiries and complaints in a professional and timely manner.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment for both staff and customers.

Qualifications

• Required Education: High School Diploma or equivalent; Bachelor's Degree in Business, Horticulture, or a related field preferred.
• Required Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in retail management, preferably in a garden center or similar environment.
• Proven experience in managing a team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Demonstrated success in achieving sales targets and managing inventory.
• Experience with plant care, gardening techniques, and pest/disease management is highly desirable.
• Experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems and inventory management software.

Skills And Abilities

• Excellent customer service skills and the ability to build rapport with customers.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to motivate and inspire a team to achieve common goals.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Passion for gardening and plants.