Head Perennial Grower Manager

Head Perennial Grower Manager - Avon Facility

Position Summary:

The Head Perennial Grower Manager at Willoway Nurseries plays a crucial role in leading and mentoring farm growing staff, fostering a culture of accountability and ownership. Responsibilities include ensuring inventory meets deadlines and quality standards, managing water and nutrient resources, and implementing effective plant pest and disease control. Collaborating with other departments, the Head Perennial Grower Manager prioritizes operational excellence and is committed to continuous improvement, this leadership role contributes innovative ideas for both short and long-term enhancements in growing operations, making it indispensable to Willoway Nurseries' overall success.

Reports to:

Nursery Farm Manager

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead Perennial Growth Strategy:
  Own the development and expansion of our perennial SKU selection.
• Drive Canning Production:
  Manage bi-weekly canning schedules, ensuring timely execution and high-quality output.
• Optimize Weekly Growing:
  Implement and monitor weekly growing plans to improve consistency and performance.
• Oversee E-Commerce Sections:
  Ensure e-commerce designated plants and sections are maintained to the highest standards, ready for online fulfillment and aligned with weekly sales schedules.
• Team Leadership:
  Supervise and mentor growing staff, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Problem Solving:
  Identify and resolve production challenges including space limitations, vendor delays, and liner quality issues.
• Data-Driven Decisions:
  Use performance metrics and root cause analysis to drive continuous improvement.

Requirements

Qualifications:

5+ years of experience in perennial growing or nursery production, with leadership experience preferred. Strong horticultural knowledge and understanding of seasonal production cycles. Proven ability to manage complex schedules and lead teams in a fast-paced environment. Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with production tracking tools and data analysis is a plus.

Knowledge:

• Advanced plant/horticultural knowledge
• Advanced knowledge of irrigation systems and pump houses
• Advanced knowledge of plant pests and diseases
• Advanced knowledge to teach and train

Behaviors:

• Strong interpersonal skills – ability to communicate (both written & verbal)
• Ability to multi-function
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Detail oriented
• Team leadership and training – inspires teammates to follow them

Benefits Why Willoway:
Willoway Nurseries, Inc. is one of the largest wholesale growers of quality nursery stock in the Midwest and ranks within the top 40 nationwide. Willoway encompasses approximately 550 acres of field production and 450 acres of container stock which includes 32 acres of climate-controlled greenhouses. We carry over 2,000 different plant varieties including shade trees, ornamental trees and shrubs, evergreens, perennials, and flowering annuals.

Willoway is on the forefront of the horticulture and nursery industry with technology, marketing, growing techniques and currently practices open book management throughout the company. This means you will be part of the success of the business with a complete understanding of how the business works financially, operationally, and strategically. We are seeking employees who can positively contribute to the growth of the company with the goal to make this your lifelong career.

Work Environment:
Outdoor 60-75% of the time;
Be prepared to work in all safe weather conditions caring for the plants

Work Schedule:

• M-F 7am-430pm
• Weekends on a rotational basis, as needed
• 40-50 hours in Spring

Why Join Us? Be part of a forward-thinking nursery with a commitment to quality and innovation. Lead a high-impact role with room to grow and shape the future of our perennial program. Work in a collaborative environment where your ideas and expertise are valued.

We are Proud to

Offer:

• Annual Salary of $75,000 to $80,000 depending on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package including cost effective medical insurance options
• 401k Match after 60 days
• Company-paid life insurance
• Paid Time Off, Paid Holiday Time with no waiting period

Please apply for this position if you have the requisite horticultural grower and leadership experience within the horticultural, agricultural, and/or hydroponic industries. Please forward your resume and career objectives to:  or  All inquiries are confidentially protected and appreciated.