Department Manager / Buyer – Trees & Shrubs – Penticton

GARDENWORKS is British Columbia’s largest independently owned garden centre company with 10 locations across Vancouver’s lower mainland, Vancouver Island, and South Okanagan.

Join GARDENWORKS and play a key role in cultivating joy in gardens, homes, and communities.

We’re seeking a dynamic and knowledgeable horticulture professional with a passion for plants and people. As the Department Manager for our Trees & Shrubs department, you’ll be responsible for sourcing and curating a vibrant, high-quality plant assortment that delights our guests, drives sales, and reflects our brand’s commitment to excellence. Full-time (40hrs) – Wage $25.00 – 28.00/hr

This role blends strategic buying, plant expertise, and hands-on retail leadership—ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment surrounded by all things green and growing.

What You’ll Do

Provide expert guidance to guests on plant selection, troubleshooting, and long-term care
Plan, source, and purchase an assortment of trees & shrubs that meet sales goals, inventory targets, and margin expectations.
Regular communication and coordination with Trout Creek – our growing facility
Analyze sales trends, stock levels, and customer demand to make data-driven buying decisions.
Foster strong relationships with growers, ensuring access to premium-quality plants and timely deliveries.
Oversee receiving, pricing, and merchandising, ensuring all plants meet our high standards for health and presentation.
Collaborate with the store merchandiser to create inspiring, trend-forward displays that reflect the brand and enhance guest experience.
Train and mentor retail staff, sharing product knowledge and sales techniques.
Maintain accurate sales reports and inventory data through our POS and tracking systems.

Is this you?

A genuine passion for plants and a love for connecting people to nature.
Experience in garden centre operations, with specific knowledge of tree & shrubs and their growing requirements.
Ability to diagnose plant health issues, identify pests/diseases, and take corrective action.
Proven ability to analyze sales and inventory data and make informed purchasing decisions.
Excellent communication and negotiation skills with vendors and internal teams.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-directed, with the ability to multitask in a dynamic environment.
Proficient with Microsoft Excel and POS or inventory systems.
Comfortable working in outdoor environments and capable of performing regular lifting.
Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and peak seasonal periods as required.

Why You’ll Love Working Here
At GARDENWORKS, we offer a culture that values a healthy, fulfilling work-life balance. Our full-time team members enjoy:

Option to join our Group Benefits share program (health, dental, vision)
A generous employee discount to help you bring home a little beauty of your own
Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
A vibrant, plant-filled workplace that inspires creativity and well-being

Interested? Forward your resume and cover letter now! You can also apply through our website www.gardenworks.ca/careers