Director of Sales and Marketing

THE GROUND UP•Houston, TX

9d•$150,000 - $170,000

About The Position

The Director of Sales & Marketing is a strategic, visionary leader responsible for driving revenue growth, strengthening customer relationships, and elevating TGU’s brand presence. This role leads the sales and marketing team for The Ground Up, develops data‑driven strategies, and ensures alignment with organizational goals. The position reports directly to the Senior Director and manages a high‑performing team of sales and marketing professionals. Success in the first 12 months includes: • Implementing strategic sales plans that drive measurable revenue growth. • Building a strong sales pipeline and achieving aggressive lead‑generation targets. • Strengthening TGU’s brand through effective marketing, product development, and trade show strategies. • Establishing strong relationships with key customers, partners, and national soil manufacturing companies. • Developing a high‑performance culture rooted in accountability, collaboration, and results.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Sales, Marketing, or related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience with a proven record of success in a consultative sales environment.
Strong knowledge of plants, trees, soil science, and horticulture.
Demonstrated success leading high‑performing sales teams.
Proven sales and marketing leadership experience in horticulture products or related solutions.
Proficiency in MS Office applications.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Previous experience prospecting, presenting, negotiating, and closing sales.

Nice To Haves

MBA strongly preferred.
Education or experience in horticulture, agriculture, or related fields.
Sales experience in a garden center, nursery, landscape, or farming environment.
Experience using CRM systems.
Previous nursery operations management experience.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and execute strategic sales plans in partnership with senior leadership.
Directly lead the sales team with decisiveness and competitiveness, fostering a culture of winning.
Develop and implement data‑driven strategies to achieve annual sales and lead‑generation targets.
Build departmental bench strength and attract top sales and marketing talent.
Create and execute marketing strategies for local and national tradeshows.
Develop new brands and products aligned with TGU’s portfolio.
Build partnerships with national soil manufacturing companies to co‑package private‑label products.
Monitor market trends and adjust sales strategies to maintain competitive advantage.
Establish and manage relationships with existing and prospective customers.
Respond to challenges with speed, agility, and solution‑oriented thinking.
Travel locally and nationally (25%–50%) to meet with key customers and prospects.
Perform other duties as assigned.