Operations Manager

Description:

The Operations Manager oversees inventory, yard operations, and facilities at the garden center. This role ensures efficient product flow and accuracy, safe and well-maintained grounds, and operational logistics that fully support the team and customer experience. The Operations Manager drives efficiency, compliance, and team development while working side-by-side with staff to model excellence and ensure daily operations run smoothly.

Requirements:

Leadership & Operations

• Partner with the Store Manager (SM) to set department goals that support overall sales, profitability, and service standards.
• Lead daily operations for inventory, receiving, facilities, and yard logistics.
• Oversee payroll, scheduling, and hiring processes to align with budget goals and department coverage needs.
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented team culture through open communication, coaching, and feedback.
• Address and resolve employee and customer concerns, partnering with SM, HR, and Retail Home Office as needed.
• Uphold company appearance standards, including uniform compliance and professional presentation.
• Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD), including opening/closing responsibilities, and directing operational priorities.

Inventory & Merchandising

• Oversee inventory flow from receiving to sales floor, storage, customer pickup, and delivery.
• Lead inventory reconciliation, including cycle counts, green goods, hard goods, and annual physical inventories.
• Partner with department leads to execute restocking and ensure accuracy of plant and hard goods inventory.
• Manage ordering, receiving, placement, and documentation of bulk and bagged goods to meet customer demand.
• Collaborate with Wholesale Manager to process and hold green goods for special orders and deliveries.

Facilities & Grounds

• Maintain facilities, equipment, and vehicles to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
• Oversee maintenance of structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and irrigation systems.
• Partner with Central Operations on construction, repair, and contracted services (e.g., snowplowing, mowing).
• Ensure grounds, display gardens, yard operations, and parking areas present an inspiring customer experience.
• Monitor and support plant health through irrigation, integrated pest management, and seasonal maintenance.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead safety programs, including OSHA training, PPE compliance, and hazard assessments.
• Conduct regular safety meetings and ensure accurate incident reporting and documentation.
• Train staff on equipment and machinery use while promoting a safe, compliant workplace.

Team Development & Staffing

• Support recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training across departments.
• Coach, develop, and evaluate team members to build top talent and operational excellence.
• Partner with SM and department leads to align staffing with business priorities.

Financial & Strategic Management

• Manage departmental budgets, including payroll, inventory, maintenance, and repairs.
• Monitor operational performance metrics and adjust strategies to meet company goals.
• Collaborate with other managers and Retail Home Office teams to share best practices and resources.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Minimum 5 years of proven leadership in a team environment.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems, heavy equipment, and facility management.
• Budget management and financial goal achievement experience.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in fast-paced environments with calm focus.
• Proficiency in Office 365 (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Knowledge of horticulture, plant care, pests, and diseases.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Weekend, holiday, and seasonal availability required.