Position Overview

Eagle Lake Nurseries seeks a passionate and results-oriented Business Development Manager to lead our Sales and Customer Service team in driving our sales, marketing, and growth initiatives. In this role, you will develop innovative strategies to achieve revenue targets, motivate a collaborative sales team, and strengthen relationships with clients and stakeholders. You will also oversee marketing efforts to enhance brand visibility, engage customers, and drive demand for our products and services. This role will be integral in delivering our mission of “Growing People that Grow Plants” while embodying our core values of Trust, Honesty, Reliability, Community, Respect, and Resilience.

Company Description

Eagle Lake Nurseries is a family-run business that started in 1970, growing sod and landscape plant material in Southern Alberta. The farm has now grown to nearly 1000 acres of different production areas, including caliper trees, greenhouse perennials, container-grown shrubs and trees, as well as traditional field crops and rented pasture. We serve and sell plant material to commercial and residential landscapers, garden centers, municipalities, golf courses, and homeowners across Western Canada and several northern US states.

Why Join Eagle Lake Nurseries?

At Eagle Lake Nurseries, we are more than a business; we are a community committed to growing plants and the people who nurture them. As a Business Development Manager, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by leading a dynamic team, driving growth, and shaping the future of our brand in the industry.

You would be joining a highly collaborative team that works together in providing the best product and customer service possible.
 

We will support you and your growth by:

• Providing comprehensive on-the-job training and ongoing education opportunities
• Offering mentorship with experienced owners and industry experts to ensure we are providing our customers with the best plant knowledge possible  
• Providing technical training and tradeshow opportunities

We stand out because:

• You’ll have an incredible opportunity to work in a dynamic, fast-paced supportive environment
• You’ll be representing a leading organization in the wholesale nursery industry
• You’ll be working in the exciting, constantly evolving world of horticulture  

Key Responsibilities

Business Development

• Develop and execute effective sales and marketing strategies to meet revenue and brand objectives.
• Lead and inspire a high-performing sales and marketing team, fostering collaboration and accountability.
• Provide training, guidance, and ongoing support to develop team capabilities and drive success.
• Work closely with the management team to collaborate on organizational goals and strategies. 
• Streamline sales and marketing operations, ensuring seamless processes and alignment with business goals.
• Analyze performance data, prepare reports, and provide actionable insights to senior management.
• Manage budgets, forecast sales and marketing expenses, and ensure adherence to company policies and industry standards.

Marketing and Stakeholder Engagement

• Work with the sales and marketing team to build and nurture strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor and driving sustained growth.

• Work with the sales and marketing team to manage marketing campaigns, including digital platforms, promotional materials, and public relations, to enhance brand visibility and engagement.

Brand Visibility

• Conduct market research to identify trends, customer needs, and growth opportunities.
• Work closely with teams across the organization on successfully rolling out new brand strategies.

Required Qualifications

• Strong leadership abilities with a proven record of leading and developing high-performing teams, demonstrating alignment with the values of Eagle Lake Nurseries and fostering an environment for team members to succeed in doing the same.

• Post-secondary education in Sales, Marketing, Business Management, Horticulture/Agriculture, or a related field.

• Proven experience (minimum 5 years) in the horticulture/agriculture industry, landscaping, or construction industries.

• A strong understanding of the wholesale nursery industry is an asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in using diverse software applications, including MS Office, CRM software, Google Suite, web tools, and social media applications.
• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach and a focus on continuous improvement.
• Strong customer service skills
• Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver’s Licence (or provincial equivalent) and ability to travel as needed

Compensation

• $75,000-$90,000 annual base salary
• Expense account for engaging with customers
• Company vehicle, cell phone and laptop provided
• Business development allowance for tradeshows, networking, and customer engagement
• Group benefits package available   

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter by clicking on APPLY TO THIS POSITION with the subject line "Business Development Manager Application."

Please be prepared to provide 3 professional references with names, telephone numbers and email addresses so that we can reach out to them.

In your Cover Letter, please answer the following questions:

• What's the most valuable thing you have learned about plants?
• Who were your most impactful mentors in the horticultural / agricultural fields?
• What achievement in your career path to date are you most proud of?
• What role do you think plants will play in the future of our communities and cities?
• What is the difference you want to make if you were hired to join our team?

We look forward to welcoming a dedicated and innovative leader to our team!