Operations Manager at Gardens Alive Inc

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.