Garden Center Operations Leader

sscjobs; Carrboro (NC); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

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Job summary

Southern States Cooperative, Inc. seeks a Garden Center Manager to lead daily operations, drive sales, and ensure excellent customer service. You will oversee inventory, merchandising, and a team of associates, serving as the local plant expert. This role requires strong leadership, vendor liaison skills, and a commitment to community engagement.

You will work in a dynamic retail environment, indoors and outdoors, with seasonal overtime and weekend hours as needed to meet business goals.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agronomy, Business Management, or related field preferred.
• 2+ years purchasing and managing nursery inventory including annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs.
• 5+ years of experience in retail garden center operations, greenhouse production, nursery management, or related industry.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop associates in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Valid driver's license; forklift certification and location-specific certifications as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily Garden Center operations including sales, merchandising, inventory management and customer service.
• Procure and manage nursery stock, including annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs and seasonal products.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with vendors to ensure timely availability.
• Coach, train and motivate team members to provide outstanding service and product knowledge.
• Assist customers with plant selection, garden planning and product recommendations.
• Create engaging displays and seasonal merchandising plans to drive sales.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment and ensure safety compliance.
• Support facility goals by managing inventory accuracy, shrink control and profitability.
• Represent Southern States in the local community and build strong customer relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Inventory management

Customer service

Merchandising

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Horticulture / related degree

Job description

Southern States Cooperative, Inc. seeks a Garden Center Manager to lead daily operations, drive sales, and ensure excellent customer service. You will oversee inventory, merchandising, and a team of associates, serving as the local plant expert. This role requires strong leadership, vendor liaison skills, and a commitment to community engagement.

You will work in a dynamic retail environment, indoors and outdoors, with seasonal overtime and weekend hours as needed to meet business goals.