Garden Center Manager

Costello's Ace Hardware | Long Island; Edgewater (MD); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A local hardware retailer is seeking a Garden Center Manager to oversee operations, staff management, and customer satisfaction in Edgewater, Maryland. The ideal candidate will have a strong retail management background with at least 3 years of experience, excellent leadership and customer service skills. Responsibilities include managing inventory, implementing sales strategies, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. This full-time position offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment centered on customer care and plant health.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in retail management, preferably in a garden center.
• Proven team management experience.
• Demonstrated success in achieving sales targets and managing inventory.

Responsibilities

• Manage and motivate the garden center team.
• Oversee daily operations including customer service.
• Implement strategies to achieve sales goals.
• Manage inventory levels of plants and supplies.
• Ensure compliance with company policies.

Skills

Customer service skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's Degree in Business, Horticulture, or related field

Tools

Point-of-sale (POS) systems

Inventory management software

Job description

Garden Center Manager

Apply for the Garden Center Manager role at Costello's Ace Hardware | Long Island.

Job Purpose

To oversee all aspects of the garden center’s operations, ensuring profitability, customer satisfaction, and a thriving plant and product environment. This includes managing staff, inventory, merchandising, and maintaining high standards of quality and service within the Costello’s ACE brand.

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 Costello’s 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.

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.

Required 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.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Retail