What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wholesale Lead, Williston position at Gardener's Supply Company?
OVERVIEW:
The Wholesale Lead is a key driver of wholesale sales growth, responsible for managing and expanding customer relationships while determinedly pursuing new business. They play a critical role in hitting and exceeding sales goals through strategic outreach, proactive account management, and expert product promotion. This role ensures seamless order processing, timely communication, and collaboration with internal teams to optimize fulfillment and inventory. In the off season, they focus on re-engaging lapsed accounts, prospecting new leads, and identifying opportunities to grow market share, potentially across all our garden center locations. Success in this role is measured by their ability to drive sales, strengthen customer partnerships, and contribute to the overall profitability of the wholesale business.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Account Management & Sales Growth
- Manage, build and maintain strong relationships with top wholesale accounts, ensuring regular communication and proactive support.
- Identify and engage with past and potential wholesale customers during the off-season to encourage future purchases.
- Process and manage wholesale orders via phone, email, and in-person interactions, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Assist in preparing estimates, quotes, and bids, coordinating with the Buying Team to ensure appropriate inventory levels.
- Partner with the Wholesale and General Manager to develop and execute sales strategies that meet wholesale sales goals and drive wholesale revenue growth year-over-year.
- Provide expert advice on plant selection, care, and industry best practices to wholesale customers.
Operations & Customer Experience
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of products and pricing to support customer inquiries and purchasing decisions.
- Partner with the Buying Team to communicate wholesale product needs, inventory gaps, and special-order requests.
- Address and resolve wholesale customer concerns promptly, ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
- Work closely with internal teams to improve wholesale order processing efficiency and overall service experience.
- Collaborate with the Inventory and Operations teams to coordinate order fulfillment, tagging, delivery, and quality assurance of wholesale plant material.
- Support the garden center during the off-season as assigned, including customer service and merchandising.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- 5 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.
- Experience managing customer accounts and building long-term business relationships.
- 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.
