Sales & Merchandising Manager

Looking for a permanent, full-time sales, merchandising and customer service opportunity within a growing company that truly understands, and embodies, work/life balance?Come join us in our established, privately-owned, rapidly expanding, wholesale flower businessThe global cut flowers market is projected to reach USD 45.5 billion by 2027, recording a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. Flowers have had an important place in history and culture since ancient times – and we grew exponentially during the pandemic and are highly recession-resistantFloral Express is a leading North American floral wholesaler recognized for delivering a broad selection of the highest quality products from around the world at competitive and inclusive pricing. We leverage a unique combination of generations of industry knowledge, cutting edge technology and exemplary service to provide our customers (and employees) with an experience that is second to none.We are international in scope, established and successful. Our success comes from hard work, integrity, and holding true to our company values. Ongoing demand from our wide range of customers has led to the design of our successful technology and people driven, sales and supply chain system. This enables us to deliver the freshest products possibleHowever, there is still much work to do and unlimited room to GROWWe listen to our customer’s needs and are constantly monitoring the marketplace for opportunities to expand our business.We are also committed to making Floral Express a great place to work, through the best management practices, competitive compensation, a hybrid work model, and an excellent company culture that encompasses employee wellness and well-being.• We value our people and our reputation.• We are dedicated to ensuring fair prices with local and international clients and growers.• We are future focused and constantly strive towards out-of-the-box thinking.• We foster interdepartmental collaboration.• We support and encourage employee wellness and well-being.• We have an empowering culture that facilitates growth and accountability.The Opportunity: The position of Retail Sales & Merchandising Manager is a pivotal role that combines sales and relationship building expertise and excellence with a passion for merchandising, marketing, branding and the provision of superior customer service.Initially, this is an independent contributor role with room to build, and grow. This role is best suited to a highly motivated, self starter who seeks a career-oriented position with an established, innovative, successful, and growing company in multi-billion dollar industry.We leverage technology and innovation and enjoy a strong leadership position in Ontario and the Maritimes and are currently working on expansion plans into other markets in Canada and the U.S., where we already operate in several geographic areas.In this position, you will be responsible for establishing and driving the strategic, growth, expansion and maintenance of our Canadian retail sales and merchandising channel to drive additional revenue and optimize product price, placement, and promotion at store level.This is a career-building opportunity with a great compensation plan that is suited to a forward-thinking, highly driven person who is capable of building exceptional relationships and who can bring ideas and creativity to the table - and execute.Duties & Responsibilities:The specific responsibilities of this position will include, but not necessarily be limited to: 1) Sales Strategy Development:Develop and implement effective sales strategies to achieve revenue targets.Analyze market trends, customer behavior, and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth.2) Merchandising Planning:Collaborate with executive leadership, product and marketing personnel and customers to develop planograms and execute effective merchandising strategies.Determine optimal product lines, pricing and negotiate optimal placement to maximize sales and profitability.3) Sales Forecasting and Analysis:Conduct sales forecasting and performance analysis via rigorous and ongoing tracking and entering of sales related activities in the company assigned CRM and/or other software.Use data and analytics to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.4) Relationship Management:Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, partners, and vendors, as assigned.Negotiate terms and agreements to enhance business partnerships, secure favourable opportunities and track all such activity and progression in CRM and/or other software.5) Budget Management:Develop and manage budgets for sales and merchandising activities.Monitor expenses and ensure efficient allocation of resources to achieve financial objectives.6) Market Research:Stay informed about industry trends, market dynamics, and customer preferences.Use market research to make informed decisions and adapt strategies accordingly.7) Cross-Functional Collaboration:Collaborate with other departments such as purchasing, marketing, finance, logistics operations to ensure alignment of goals and effective execution of strategies.8) Performance Metrics Tracking:Work with senior level management to establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of sales and merchandising efforts.Use metrics to celebrate successes and identify areas for improvement on an ongoing basis.Skills & QualificationsTo succeed in this position, you will posses the following skills and qualifications which you will utilize to drive sales, optimize merchandising strategies, and ensure positive customer experience(s).1. Sales and Marketing:In-depth understanding of retail sales strategies and techniques.Knowledge of market trends and customer preferences.Ability to develop and implement effective sales and marketing plans.2. Merchandising Expertise:Experience in planning and executing visual merchandising strategies.Knowledge of product placement, assortment planning, and inventory management.Ability to optimize store layout and displays to enhance the customer shopping experience.3. Analytical Skills:Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Ability to interpret sales data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.Experience with retail analytics tools and systems.4. Customer Focus:Customer-centric mindset with a focus on providing excellent customer service.Ability to understand and respond to customer needs and feedback.Implementing strategies to enhance the overall customer experience.5. Communication Skills:Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Ability to effectively communicate with team members, senior management, and external stakeholders.Experience in preparing reports and presentations.6. Financial Acumen:Budgeting and financial management skills.Understanding of key financial metrics and the ability to drive profitability.Experience in setting and achieving sales targets.Other Qualifications:A degree or certification in business administration, sales, marketing, horticulture, or equivalent, previous experience in a professional business environment.Previous experience in a retail sales and merchandising role is strongly preferred.Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-centric approach to sales and marketing services.High level of proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and IMS/CRM software.Detail-oriented mindset with a focus on accuracy on order processing and record-keeping.Leadership capabilities, and an exceptionally strong work ethic.Ability to work both independently collaboratively in a fast-paced, team environment and adapt quickly to changing business needs.Compensation: Consists of a base salary in the range of $70-$75k per annum plus bonus, paid vacation, business technology, benefits, and use of a company vehicle for the successful candidate.Hours & Other Considerations:Standard hours are Monday – Friday between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Hours and days of work are subject to change due to the nature of the industry.During the ramp up/training period, work is conducted at our head office location in Woodstock, Ontario and/or in a home office, as approved, when travel is not required.A hybrid is model is available, for the right candidate, and upon successful completion of the initial training/learning and ramp up period.Able to travel daily/weekly within Ontario, (primarily) to meet customers with occasional opportunities to visit the Maritimes and USA (for conferences, events, etc.).A valid, Class G Driver’s License must be always maintained for this position.Maintain access to a reliable vehicle.Must be a Canadian citizen or have Permanent Residency status.Must be able to speak, read and write fluently in English. French is an asset.Note: Experience in the floral industry is an advantage but is not required for candidates who demonstrate a strong interest and aptitude for the opportunity.Training and on-the-job learning opportunities will be provided to help develop industry-specific knowledge and skills.