Store Manager Burlington, VT

The Store Manager is responsible for leading all aspects of our garden center. As the ambassador for the Gardener’s Supply brand, this role oversees retail and wholesale operations while creating an inspiring, customer-focused experience. The Store Manager drives sales, profitability, and operational excellence while fostering a positive, team-oriented work environment.

Leadership & Operations

• Lead daily operations and overall performance of the garden center.
• Achieve sales, profit margin, payroll, and productivity goals.
• Supervise and develop managers and leads through training, coaching, and problem-solving.
• Partner with the Retail Area Manager (RAM) to develop and execute sales, merchandising, and expense management strategies.
• Ensure operational compliance with all company policies and procedures.
• Maintain retail readiness and cleanliness across the facility.

Customer Experience

• Set and uphold high standards for customer service, resolving all customer concerns promptly.
• Create a welcoming, inspiring, and informative shopping environment through merchandising, displays, and seasonal presentations.
• Partner with marketing and store teams to grow Gardener’s Club membership and implement promotions.

Merchandising & Inventory

• Oversee merchandising plans by department, ensuring seasonal and thematic displays meet brand standards.
• Partner with the store team to manage inventory levels for both green goods (annuals, perennials, nursery, houseplants, seasonal décor) and hard goods.
• Analyze sales and customer trends to inform product selection and presentation.

Team Development & Staffing

• Lead recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training for all store roles, including seasonal staff.
• Create weekly staffing schedules to meet sales volume, service, and budget requirements.
• Build a collaborative, service-oriented team culture across all departments.
• Conduct performance reviews, coaching sessions, and other personnel management duties.

Financial & Strategic Management

• Prepare and manage annual budgets for sales, expenses, and income.
• Monitor daily sales, labor, and operational performance; adjust strategies to meet goals.
• Collaborate with other store managers and the RAM to share resources and best practices.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all safety, loss prevention, and regulatory standards are met.
• Provide training and oversight to maintain a safe work environment.

Additional Duties

• Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD) with opening and closing responsibilities.
• Work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and seasonal overtime as needed.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of successful leadership in a multi-department or multi-unit retail environment.
• 5+ years of direct customer service experience.
• Garden center or nursery experience strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and achieve financial goals.
• Strong team-building, project management, and communication skills.
• Advanced horticultural knowledge preferred; broad plant knowledge a plus.
• Strong visual merchandising, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to analyze data and make sound business decisions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, email, and internet research.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to work around heavy equipment and spend extended periods standing/walking on hard surfaces.
• Passion for gardening and customer engagement.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to lift 50 lbs regularly and work outdoors in all weather conditions.