Garden Centre Manager

Overview

Position: Garden Centre Manager
Location: Essex
Salary: Competitive DOE

Are you an experienced retail leader with a passion for operational excellence and customer experience? This is a fantastic opportunity to join one of the UK's leading garden centre groups, taking responsibility for the day-to-day running and commercial success of a unique and high-performing site.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and enjoys leading large teams to deliver exceptional results.

You'll be joining a company that invests heavily in its people and facilities, offering excellent training and genuine opportunities for progression.

Responsibilities

What you'll be doing:

As Garden Centre Operations Manager, you'll oversee the full retail operation of the centre - leading from the front to drive performance, service, and profitability.

• Leading, motivating, and developing a large, diverse team to deliver first-class customer service.
• Overseeing all operational areas including retail, stock management, visual standards, and compliance.
• Working closely with department heads to ensure smooth daily operations and consistent execution of group standards.
• Analysing sales and performance data to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Building strong relationships with suppliers, contractors, and stakeholders to support business success.
• Ensuring the highest standards of health & safety, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Driving a positive workplace culture that encourages teamwork, accountability, and development.

What they're looking for

• Proven experience in a senior retail management role, ideally within a large multi-department store/big garden retail environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and empower teams.
• Excellent operational awareness and commercial understanding - you'll know how to balance customer experience with profitability.
• Confident communicator with great interpersonal skills, able to engage effectively with colleagues, customers, and suppliers.
• A hands-on approach with a passion for retail standards, service delivery, and continuous improvement.

Perks & Benefits

• Join a market-leading group with an exceptional reputation for quality and staff development.
• Take on a high-profile management role within a well-invested and growing centre.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Company discount
• Clear opportunities for career progression across the wider group.
• Free onsite parking and great company culture.

Apply now

This is an exciting opportunity to make your mark in a thriving and forward-thinking business.

To apply, send your CV to or call for a confidential chat.