Floral Design Director - Hudson and Associates, LLC

We are seeking a full-time experienced and creative Floral Design Director to lead and oversee all aspects of our floral operations in our St. Louis headquarters. This subject matter expert will share their extensive floral expertise and insights, focus on new floral trends, training and charting the strategic growth of Flying Blooms. The individual will be responsible for managing design, production, and delivery of high-quality floral arrangements while ensuring exceptional customer satisfaction in our retail locations. They will also ensure the layout of floral displays and complimentary gifts are attractive and inviting to customers. They will direct and lead the creation of seasonal or event-specific displays, use lighting and signage to direct customers, and create a welcoming atmosphere using scents and arrangements. The Director will also play a pivotal role in developing the brand’s floral vision, optimizing operational efficiencies, and driving growth within our business.

Key Design & Creativity Leadership

• Develop and execute creative vision for floral designs in line with brand identify.
• Stay current with industry trends to create innovative and seasonal floral arrangements.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to florist and design teams, fostering creativity and skill development.

Florist Skills

• Arrange both real and silk flowers for display at occasions or in the home or office.
• Fill special orders for holidays or other occasions.
• Make traditional corsages, bouquets, wreaths, and wedding decorations, as well as other kinds of original designs.
• Collaborate with clients to fulfill their vision for occasions such as weddings, funerals, or celebrations and events.
• Work with a wide range of foliage and flowers.
• Water plants, and cut, condition, and clean flowers and foliage for storage and longevity.

Team Leadership & Operations Management

• Oversee daily operations, including inventory management, production schedules, and quality control.
• Establish and enforce best practices for flower care, arrangements, and storage.
• Monitor sales, labor, materials, and budget ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of florists and support staff.
• Create a positive work environment that encourages collaboration and professional growth.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations, assessments, and positive constructive feedback.
• Must be willing to travel & aid with marketing and branding the services. 

Customer Experience

• Ensure all floral products meet or exceed customer expectations for quality and design.
• Collaborate with the sales team to develop tailored solutions for corporate events, and retail clients.
• Address customer feedback promptly to maintain elevated levels of satisfaction
• Strategic Plan & Growth
• Develop and implement strategies to expand the floral business, including partnerships and new service offerings.
• Work with marketing to promote floral services through campaigns and social media.
• Analyze sales data and marketing trends to identify opportunities for improvements and innovations.

Business Administration and Technical Skills

• Must have effective communication skills to collaborate effectively with customers to understand their vision and deliver results.
• Great management and organizational skills.
• Computer literate and proficient with business software, Microsoft office and other innovative tools for operational efficiency and effectiveness.
• FD must have good communications (verbal and written) and social skills.

JOB REQUIRMENTS

Education and Experience:

• Certified Floral Designer (CFD) or American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD)
• Associate’s degree in business or equivalent education preferred.
• High School Diploma required.
• 3 to 5 years’ commercial design experience
• 2 years’ management experience

Physical Requirements

• Fast-paced working environment
• Lift moderately heavy loads up to 30 lbs.
• Ability to bend, reach, kneel, squat.
• Able to stand extended periods of time.
• Able to push/pull heavy loads