Description

Position Summary:

The position of Retail Sales & Merchandising Manager i s 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.

This is an independent contributor role suited to a highly motivated, self starter in an established, innovative and successful growing company and multi-billion dollar recession-proof, 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 Canadian markets.

We also operate in several geographic areas of the U.S.

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 revenue and optimize product price, placement, and promotion.

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 & Qualifications

As the Retail Sales and Merchandising Manager at Floral Express, you will play a crucial role in helping us build and oversee the strategic direction of the sales and merchandising operations within our retail channel.

To succeed in this position, it is mutually understood that you 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.

7. Vendor and Supplier Management:

• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Negotiation skills to secure favorable terms and pricing.
• Monitoring and managing inventory levels to ensure product availability.

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 office 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).
• 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.