Garden Center Lead, Shelburne

OVERVIEW:

The Garden Center Lead is responsible for the daily supervision of the garden center, ensuring an exceptional customer experience across all departments, including nursery, perennials, hard goods, and customer service areas. This role plays a vital part in driving sales, managing store operations, overseeing merchandising, and maintaining the overall safety and appearance of the facility. The Garden Center Lead acts as a resource and mentor for staff, providing training and development while maintaining high operational standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide exceptional customer service across all departments, ensuring customers receive knowledgeable assistance and a positive shopping experience.
• Lead and train staff to engage, assist, and educate customers on plants, gardening products, and sustainable solutions.
• Ensure the store remains visually inspiring and well-merchandised to drive sales.
• Supervise and support team members, fostering a positive, and collaborative work environment.
• Train staff in product knowledge, customer service, irrigation, equipment operation, POS systems, and safety procedures.
• Partner with management to provide feedback, coaching, and performance development.
• Oversee daily garden center operations, including merchandising transitions, seasonal changeovers, and inventory flow.
• Ensure timely processing and placement of green goods, hard goods, and bagged materials.
• Ensure the accuracy of inventory levels, pricing, and POS system maintenance.
• Manage irrigation systems, including opening and closing lines and timers seasonally and overseeing watering schedules.
• Oversee property maintenance, including cleanliness and seasonal fixture setup/storage.
• Act as the safety officer, ensuring staff adhere to safety policies, report incidents promptly, and maintain compliance with garden center, state and federal guidelines.
• Participate in and support the store safety committee.
• Perform MOD (Manager on Duty) responsibilities, including opening and closing the store, directing staff, and ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Supports company initiatives, events, and promotions by remaining informed on offers and sustainable gardening solutions.
• Takes personal accountability for representing company values in all situations (service, dress code, interpersonal skills).
• Promotes a positive work environment through an inclusive and respectful approach.
• Celebrates and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
• Leads change with a positive and growth mindset, supporting others through transitions and improvements.
• Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• 3 years of sales and customer service experience in the horticulture or green goods business.
• Strong knowledge of horticulture, including plant identification, disease and pest management, and industry terminology.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to research and resolve issues.
• Proven leadership experience in a team setting.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, POS systems, and Internet search tools; ability to learn new software quickly.
• Valid drivers license required.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to regularly lift 30-50 lbs. and perform physical labor.
• Adherence to all company policies and safety regulations.