Outdoor Plants Supervisor - Stewarts Christchurch

About The Role

As an Outdoor Plants Supervisor at the heart of our Christchurch garden centre, you will support the team while taking ownership of the outdoor plant area, ensuring plants are healthy, well presented and that every customer leaves with the right advice and inspiration for their garden.

Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of plant care across the outdoor area, ensuring high standards of watering, feeding, pruning, and general maintenance.
• Maintain excellent plant health and quality, proactively managing pests, disease, and seasonal challenges.
• Be a go‑to expert for customers—offering advice, answering queries, and making confident plant recommendations.
• Create attractive, seasonal displays that inspire customers and drive sales.
• Support and guide the team in maintaining strong plant care routines and presentation standards.
• Ensure all plant deliveries are checked, processed, and cared for correctly.
• Monitor stock levels and highlight gaps or opportunities based on seasonal demands.
• Uphold high standards of housekeeping, safety, and organisation within the Department.
• Support stocktakes and maintain accurate plant records.
• Communicate any plant care issues or stock concerns promptly.
• Support peak seasons and key trading periods.
• Assist with ordering.
• Step into Duty Manager responsibilities and act as a key holder when required.

Day To Day

• Walk the plant area regularly to monitor plant health and presentation.
• Ensure all plants are cared for in line with best horticultural practices.
• Support customers with plant selection and care advice.
• Answer customer queries confidently, from plant suitability to aftercare.
• Support the team in maintaining a welcoming, well‑stocked, and inspiring environment.
• Manage stock flow from delivery through to display.
• Oversee plant rotation, waste control, and markdowns.
• Support team development and share your plant knowledge with colleagues.
• Assist with rotas and general team administration where needed.
• Work closely with the Department Manager to meet trading demands.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong plant knowledge (essential) and a genuine passion for horticulture.
• Confidence in advising customers and making plant recommendations.
• Previous retail and/or horticultural experience, ideally with some leadership or supervisory exposure.
• Excellent communication and people skills.
• Excellent organisation and attention to detail.
• A strong understanding of plant care and seasonal trends.
• A good awareness of Health & Safety practices.
• A hands‑on, positive, can‑do attitude.
• The ability to support and guide a team.
• Availability to work alternate weekends.

What It's Like Working At Stewarts

• A friendly supportive team.
• A family‑run business with strong values and heritage.
• A varied and active role.
• Opportunities to grow and develop.

Benefits

• Generous staff discount scheme (following probationary period).
• Free on‑site parking and uniform.
• Additional day off to celebrate your birthday!

The Practical Details

• Contract Type: Permanent – Full time (39 hours per week including alternative weekends).
• Location: Stewarts Christchurch Garden Centre, Lyndhurst Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4SA.
• Reports to: Department Manager.
• Please Note: This is a physically active role involving regular heavy lifting.

How To Apply

If you love plants and want to help customers feel confident and inspired in their gardens while growing your own career, we’d love to hear from you! To apply, please send a copy of your CV and a covering letter to: HR Department, D Stewart & Son Ltd, 8 Christchurch Business Park, Radar Way, Christchurch BH23 4FL.

Please Note: CVs that do not have an accompanying cover letter will not be considered.