Retail Team Lead

(Seasonal, Full Time March - December)

Why Join Us?

• Exclusive Discounts – Enjoy special savings on plants, garden products, and more!
• Great Work Environment – Join a team where collaboration, accountability and fun make every day enjoyable
• Nature All Day, Every Day – Swap the office for a greenhouse and surround yourself with lush greenery.
• Room to Grow – Show your skills, and you may have the chance to transition into another department after the planting season.

Position Overview:

The Retail Greenhouse Department Lead reports to the General Manager and plays a key role in the daily operation and success of the Retail Greenhouse. This hands-on leadership position works closely with greenhouse staff and retail associates to maintain an organized, productive, and sales-focused environment.

Leading by example, the Department Lead supports staff development, drives sales performance, and ensures high standards of merchandising, cleanliness, and store presentation are consistently achieved. The successful candidate will be passionate about leadership, team development, and creating an exceptional shopping experience for guests.

While an interest in plants and gardening is an asset, extensive horticultural knowledge is not required. Comprehensive training is provided, making this an excellent opportunity for a strong retail leader looking to grow within the garden centre industry.

Position Details:

• Department: Retail Greenhouse
• Reports To: General Manager
• Position Type: Full Time Year Round 30-40 hours/week
• Schedule: Weekdays, evenings, and weekends as required
• Location: Shelmerdine Garden Centre Ltd. (own transportation required; no bus service available)
• Key Holder: Participates in store lock-up rotation
• Vacation Blackout Periods: April 1 – June 15 and November 15 – December 23

What You’ll Be Doing:

Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and support greenhouse staff through positive day-to-day leadership.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Delegate tasks effectively and follow up to ensure completion.
• Assist with onboarding and training new team members.
• Coach staff on sales techniques, product presentation, and guest engagement.
• Lead by example through a strong work ethic and positive attitude and support employee development by providing feedback, guidance, and encouragement.

Sales & Merchandising

• Drive sales through effective merchandising, product presentation, and floor management.
• Maintain attractive, organized, and fully stocked displays throughout the greenhouse.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate replenishment needs.
• Ensure promotional displays, signage, and seasonal features are executed effectively.
• Work closely with the marketing team for advertisement opportunities on social media

Greenhouse Operations

• Support the daily operation of the Retail Greenhouse to ensure efficiency and consistency.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organization, and safety throughout all greenhouse areas.
• Coordinate daily priorities and workflow to maximize productivity.
• Work closely with the Greenhouse Waterer and retail associates to ensure plant care and presentation standards are maintained.
• Assist with receiving, staging, and organizing incoming product.

Guest Experience

• Deliver exceptional service by assisting customers with product selection and purchases.
• Address customer concerns and resolve issues in a professional and timely manner.
• Support staff in handling guest inquiries and challenging situations.
• Create a welcoming shopping environment that encourages repeat visits and customer loyalty.
• Participate in weekly meetings with management to review priorities, sales performance, and operational initiatives.
• Communicate department goals, updates, and expectations clearly with team members.
• Collaborate with other departments to support overall store success

Core Competencies:

• Leadership and team development
• Sales and customer service excellence
• Time and task management
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Organization and attention to detail
• Computer proficiency
• Communication and collaboration

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience with the ability to motivate a team
• Minimum 3 years of experience in retail
• Passion for sales and exceptional customer service.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work in varying weather conditions.

About Shelmerdine Garden Centre Ltd.For over 89 years, Shelmerdine has been Manitoba’s premier destination for gardening, home décor, and fashion. As a local business, we take pride in our welcoming work environment, where teamwork, learning, and passion for plants thrive.

We operate one of the largest garden centers in the province, offering high-quality plants, gardening essentials, and unique retail experiences. Our greenhouse production ensures a vibrant selection of homegrown plants each season.

At Shelmerdine, we believe in growth—both for our plants and our people. We invest in employee development, encourage long-term careers, and make work fun. We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering a creative and inspiring workplace.