Connecting to Nature (CtN) is an e-commerce business supplying nature and gifting products such as wildflower seed, bird food, trees and hedging, gardening accessories & bespoke corporate gifting. We aim to boost biodiversity and the well-being of our community by helping people feel closer to nature. We are keen to expand operations, both online and B2B, and are seeking to recruit an astute, commercially experienced business lead. The ideal candidate will have a passion for nature, and will be seeking a multi-faceted role that can take advantage of their broad range of business skills. The GM will form part of a larger senior leadership team within the Arvum Group and will ideally contribute to the continuing expansion of Group activities.
The Role
The successful candidate will be expected to lead and deliver CtN's strategic ambitions, whilst effectively running the day-to-day business. The GM will take a customer-facing role, driving sales and developing customers - both online and offline. He or she will effectively manage the various areas of the business including production, marketing, logistics & administration to ensure a cohesive approach to driving the continued growth and success of CtN.
Key Responsibilities
Design and execute CtN's commercial strategy, delivering on strategic and financial targets.
Take responsibility for sales performance and lead sales - both online and offline.
Operations – have oversight over key operations to ensure they are carried out efficiently and effectively throughout the supply chain - from field production through to final customers satisfaction.
Production strategy – take responsibility for key decisions in the production strategy, what seed is to get produced and at what quantities. Liaise with staff from other group companies to ensure field production actions are timely and appropriate.
Represent and effectively manage stakeholder relationships, including government agencies, biodiversity projects, customers and potential influencers and ensure C2N is, not only a participant with stakeholders but that our voice is heard.
Suppliers – Maintain and enhance relationships with key suppliers to grow and ensure continuity in supply.
Finance – Accurately Budget and forecast CtN's performance and deliver on the 5-year plan as set out.
Marketing – Take responsibility for CtN overall marketing strategy and manage the implementation of same.
We operate a similar business in the UK (Meadowmania) – liaise and effectively co-operate with the Head of Meadowmania – taking advantage of synergies and opportunities so that both businesses grow and develop.