Plant Area Manager

MorePeople; Basildon; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading garden centre group in Basildon seeks a passionate retail manager to oversee their plant area. The ideal candidate will have garden centre experience and strong horticultural knowledge. Responsibilities include managing plant presentation, leading a team, and making data-driven commercial decisions to maximise sales. This role is perfect for someone who loves working with plants and values quality and care in a retail environment.

Qualifications

• Experience as a plant area manager in a garden centre.
• In-depth knowledge of various plant categories.

Responsibilities

• Ensure high standards of plant presentation.
• Manage stock ordering and allocations effectively.
• Lead and motivate a team to achieve sales goals.
• Support the Centre Manager in daily operations.
• Make data-backed commercial decisions.

Skills

Garden centre experience

Strong horticultural knowledge

Job description

This is a fantastic chance to join a top garden centre group in a centre renowned for its plant offering. The site has a unique charm - almost boutique - where quality, presentation, and care are everything. It's a tight-knit operation, very hands-on, and a real labour‑of‑love project, making this role perfect for someone who's passionate about their plants and a strong retail manager.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for hardy, seasonal and house plants, ensuring high standards and consistent presentation throughout
• Manage ordering, allocations, volumes, and commercial decisions to maximise sales and minimise wastage
• Lead a team of around five staff (more in peak), motivating and directing them to deliver exceptional results
• Work closely with the Centre Manager and deputise when required, supporting wider site operations
• Make strong, data‑backed commercial decisions using your plant knowledge and retail experience
• Maintain an engaging, well‑stocked, plant‑heavy environment despite a limited indoor footprint

What We're Looking For

• Garden centre experience, specifically within plant area manager experience
• Strong horticultural knowledge across all plant categories