Retail Purchasing and Merchandising Manager in Burlington, Vermont at Gardens Alive Inc

The Retail Merchandising & Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading merchandising strategy, purchasing, inventory management, and vendor partnerships for the retail division. This role develops compelling product assortments across all retail categories while driving sales, margin performance, inventory productivity, and brand consistency throughout the division.

Working closely with store leadership, marketing, growing operations, distribution, and vendor partners, this position ensures strong product flow, effective inventory management, and a customer-focused merchandise experience across all garden center locations.

This is a key home office role responsible for supporting divisional growth, strengthening merchandising strategy, and helping drive operational and financial performance across the retail division.

Core Responsibilities

Merchandising & Purchasing

· Develop division-wide and store-specific merchandise assortments across all retail categories.

· Identify and source products aligned with brand standards, customer trends, seasonal opportunities, and market demand.

· Build and maintain strong vendor partnerships through effective negotiation, communication, and product development.

· Partner with store leadership to develop seasonal merchandising strategies and product priorities.

· Collaborate with marketing and operations teams to support promotions, product launches, and seasonal campaigns.

· Partner with Wholesale divisions on product sourcing opportunities where appropriate.

Inventory & Supply Chain Management

· Oversee inventory planning, purchasing, replenishment, and product flow across all retail locations.

· Develop inventory strategies that support strong in-stock positions while optimizing inventory productivity.

· Lead logistics and freight coordination efforts to improve operational efficiencies and reduce costs.

· Partner with distribution, inventory control, and accounting teams to support inventory accuracy and reporting.

· Collaborate with growing operations on forecasting and product planning for internally grown product.

Leadership & Strategy

· Lead, develop, and support the Retail Buying team with a strong focus on internal bench strength, professional growth, and career development.

· Foster a collaborative, service-oriented, and solutions-focused team culture.

· Support new store acquisition and integration efforts as needed.

· Analyze sales, inventory, and market trends to support informed business decisions and continuous improvement.

· Maintain regular communication with store teams to ensure alignment on product needs, priorities, and opportunities.

· Regular presence at and travel between stores

· 5–7 years of retail buying, merchandising, or inventory management experience, preferably within the garden center, horticulture, or specialty retail industry.

· Strong knowledge of nursery, gardening, and lifestyle product categories.

· Advanced or formal horticultural knowledge.

· Demonstrated success in merchandising, assortment planning, sourcing, vendor negotiation, and inventory management.

· Experience leading and developing teams in a collaborative retail environment.

· Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced seasonal business.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and retail inventory/POS systems.

· Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between stores and industry events.

· Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.