COMPANY OVERVIEW
We are a well-established gardening and landscaping business based in Lisburn, Northern Ireland,. We specialise in delivering high-quality gardening, grounds maintenance, and landscaping services to both residential and commercial clients.
With a strong reputation for excellence and customer satisfaction, we have built long-term relationships with our clients through our dedication to quality, professionalism and reliability. We are a small, friendly, family-run business with a growing team of 18 skilled staff members and due to significant growth, we are now recruiting the following key role:
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly motivated General Manager to lead our team and drive the strategic growth of the business. This role requires a proactive leader with a strong background in business operations, financial management, and team leadership, preferably within a service-based industry.
The General Manager will be responsible for administering smooth daily operations, financial sustainability and maintaining high service standards while fostering a positive workplace culture, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. They will also be a key decision-maker, developing business opportunities and working with the directors to shape the company’s long-term future.
Wage = £40k per annum
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Operational Management
Manage daily business operations to ensure efficient service delivery.
Ensure all gardening, landscaping, and maintenance projects are completed on time and to client specifications.
Manage the scheduling of jobs, staff allocation, and resource planning to optimise productivity.
Identify and implement process improvements to streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction.
Develop and implement policies and procedures to improve workflow, service quality, and operational efficiency.
Financial Oversight
Manage company budgets, financial forecasts, and expenditure.
Analyse financial reports and key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess business performance.
Identify and implement strategies to increase revenue and control operational costs.
Negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors to secure cost-effective materials and services.
Ensure all invoicing, payroll, and financial transactions are accurately processed and recorded.
Team Leadership & Human Resources
Lead, manage, and inspire a team of 18 gardening and landscaping professionals as well as sales and administration staff.
Handle staff recruitment, onboarding, and training to ensure a skilled and motivated workforce.
Conduct performance evaluations, provide feedback, and address any disciplinary matters professionally.
Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture that encourages teamwork, accountability, and professional development.
Ensure workforce planning aligns with business growth and seasonal demand fluctuations.
Business Development & Growth
Identify and develop new business opportunities to expand the company’s client base and maintain sustainable growth.
Build strong relationships with existing and potential clients to enhance customer retention and referrals.
Lead the development and execution of sales, marketing, and branding strategies.
Stay updated on industry trends and competitor activities to maintain a competitive edge.
Client Relations & Customer Service
Act as the primary point of contact for key clients, ensuring their expectations are met or exceeded.
Handle client queries, concerns, and complaints promptly and professionally.
Ensure service delivery standards are consistently maintained across all projects.
Develop client feedback mechanisms to continuously improve service offerings.
Regulatory Compliance & Health & Safety
Ensure all business operations comply with local regulations, employment laws, and industry standards.
Oversee risk assessments and ensure best practices in health and safety are followed across all work sites.
Maintain up-to-date insurance policies, licenses, and compliance documentation.
Conduct regular safety training sessions and audits to ensure a safe working environment for all staff.
NB: The marginal functions of this position have not been included. This job description in no way implies that these are the only duties to be performed. An employee will be required to follow any other job-related duties required by the Directors.
PERSON SPECIFICATION - ESSENTIAL SKILLS & QUALITIES
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree.
Additional certifications in leadership, financial management, health & safety etc.. (Desirable)
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite - Word, Excel etc.
Proficiency with cloud-based working environments for team coordination and data management- eg: Google Drive, Microsoft One-drive, Online Calendars etc.
Experience using web based task management applications such as Todoist, Slack etc. (Desirable)
Experience with App and Web based service software such as Jobber. (Desirable)
MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong administrative skills with the ability to manage multiple projects while ensuring efficiency and profitability
Ability to liaise effectively with clients, staff, suppliers, and external stakeholders.
Commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and maintaining client satisfaction.
Ability to handle customer inquiries and resolve issues promptly and professionally.
Experience scheduling mobile teams (Desirable).
TEAM MANAGEMENT
Proven track record of managing small to medium-sized teams including field and office personnel.
Experience in recruitment, staff development, performance management, and conflict resolution.
Comfortable managing workplace conflicts and implementing solutions.
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Strong understanding of financial statements and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Ability to use financial data to inform strategic business decisions and cost control.
Experience with accounting software such as Xero, Quickbooks, Sage etc. (Desirable)
SALES AND MARKETING
Ability to identify market opportunities and develop strategies to increase market share.
Familiarity with digital marketing tools, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and branding
strategies.
Strong negotiation skills for supplier and client agreements.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Strong commercial awareness and ability to identify new revenue opportunities.
Experience in developing and implementing business growth strategies.
Creative thinking to explore long-term development opportunities both on the ground and online.
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
Minimum of 5 years management experience in a service-based industry.
Experience of market conditions in Northern Ireland.
Experience overseeing field-based teams and coordinating mobile service delivery. (Desirable)
Knowledge of landscaping trends, sustainability practices, and regulatory requirements. (Desirable)
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Valid UK Driving Licence
Willingness to work flexible hours as required by changing business needs, seasonal demands, and customer expectations.
Must have the legal right to work in the UK.
Keen interest in enjoying outdoor spaces.