Native Plant Nursery Outside Sales Manager

Job Description:

As a sales Manager, your role is to strengthen and expand relationships with both existing and prospective customers, reinforcing the Pizzo Native Plant Nursery brand and driving sales growth.

Key responsibilities include:

• Customer Relationship Management
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, ensuring high satisfaction and consistent engagement.
• Oversee all customer interactions, including quoting, order entry, PO management, change orders, plant photo submissions, delivery and shipment scheduling, quality control, international customs documentation, and financial processes (accounts receivable/payable, collections, and purchasing).
• Facilitate effective communication to keep all team members informed of customer expectations, plant requirements, and sales goals.

Market and Industry Awareness

• Identify industry trends and upcoming customer projects to aid in plant production planning.
• Develop strategies for positioning Pizzo Native Plant Nursery as the preferred supplier.

Marketing and Brand Development

• Collaborate on marketing materials, website updates, social media, and sponsorship opportunities to promote the brand.
• Manage tradeshow and event logistics, including registration, travel, lodging, exhibit setup, and maintaining the subscriber database.

Thought Leadership and Community Engagement

• Engage in presentations, publications, and industry events to establish Pizzo Native Plant Nursery as a leader in native plants.
• Nurture relationships with brokers and sales representatives to improve sales reach and customer support.

Customer Satisfaction and Feedback

• Periodically check in with current customers to assess satisfaction and show appreciation for their business.

Benefits:

• A company car is provided with take-home privileges, along with a gas card and toll package to facilitate travel.
• We offer competitive benefits designed to align with industry standards and meet market demands
  • Paid Time Off
  • Tier 1 Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Additional Ancillary Benefits are available.
  • Complimentary 25k life insurance policy
  • 401k with company match
  • 6 National Holidays

Qualifications:

1. Educational Background:
   • Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, environmental science, botany, ecology, or a related field.
   • Relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Horticulturist, or specialized native plant certifications) are a plus.
2. Plant Knowledge:
   • In-depth understanding of native plants, their ecological benefits, and proper planting and care techniques.
   • Familiarity with local ecosystems and invasive species management.
3. Sales Expertise:
   • Proven experience in sales, preferably in horticulture, landscaping, or ecological restoration.
   • Ability to identify and target key markets, such as landscapers, restoration companies, municipalities, and homeowners.

1. Managment Experience
   Experience:
   • 3-5 years of Leadership skills with experience managing a sales team, setting goals, and motivating staff.
2. Customer Relationship Management (CRM):
   • Proficiency in CRM tools to track sales data, manage customer accounts, and analyze market trends.
3. Marketing Acumen:
   • Experience developing and executing sales strategies, including online and offline marketing campaigns.

Additional Skills:

• Communication Skills 
• Organizational Skills
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Passion for Conservation
• Adaptability
• Team-Oriented
• Software Proficiency
• GIS Knowledge
• Industry Connections
• Field Experience

Safety:

Safety is always Pizzo's number one goal.  As an employee, you have a legal right to a safe and healthy workplace.  At Pizzo, you may be asked to read the workplace safety and health posters and comply with all applicable OSHA and Illinois safety standards.  Our employees follow all lawful employer safety and health rules and regulations, and wear/use the required protective equipment while working.  Employees are to report hazardous conditions to the

employer, report any job-related injury or illness and report any near misses to the employer.  You may be asked to join our health and safety committee, provide guidance on site from an H/S perspective or render first aid.  Each one of us shares the responsibility of making sure everyone goes home to their family’s safe daily. 

Please Note:

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills and due to the changing nature of the job is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice. This position is exempt based on FLSA laws. The Pizzo Group uses E-Verify and third-party background check services during the hiring process.

Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines

Our Values:

We are a team that works together with respect, cooperation, enthusiasm, and integrity to achieve our goals.