The Garden Centre Association (GCA) urges members to get their 2024 Rising Stars nominations in by March 1 to help showcase and develop some of the industry's most talented individuals this year.
The Westland Horticulture-sponsored programme offers those who participate the possibility of being mentored by experts in the horticultural industry.
GCA Inspector and Rising Stars programme mentor, Gordon Emslie
GCA Inspector and Rising Stars programme mentor, Gordon Emslie says: "An eligible candidate should be a rising star or have the potential to be one within your garden centre. The candidate should have a passion or desire to contribute to this year's topic of environmental and sustainability and should hold a position below management level".
He adds: "The candidates need to be available to attend several workshops throughout the year and a mixture of face-to-face and virtual meetings. In addition, they need to have access to financial data including sales and cost prices, and demonstrate drive and commitment. Lastly, they need to have a sales idea for growing an area of your garden centre in a sustainable or environmental manner."
Applications should be completed and submitted before Thursday, March 1, 2024.
After all the nominations are received, they will be reviewed, and successful candidates will be invited to join the programme for 2024.
2023 Westland Horticulture sponsored Rising Stars finalists with their certificates
The finalists will be requested to take part in a series of workshops held by Gordon on topics such as retail disciplines, driving sales, financial awareness and presentation skills. The candidates' work will be assessed throughout the year to review the various elements on which they have received coaching.
Peter Burks, GCA Chief Executive, says: "Our Westland Horticulture-sponsored Rising Stars programme is a wonderful opportunity for nominees to hone their skills while being guided and supported by experts in our industry. Plus, all they learn will be brought back and used at the garden centre where they work, to the benefit of everyone. We're indebted to and can't thank enough Westland Horticulture for sponsoring the programme and for all the support it provides.".
He concludes: "The best-performing finalists will be invited to the seventh and last workshop in the series. As well as to the annual GCA Conference in January 2025, where they will present the progress made on their project idea to the conference. In advance, Gordon will provide coaching in presentation skills. Delegates will then vote for the winner, who will receive their award at the conference too."
Applications are available from www.gca.org.uk/applications-open-for-2024-rising-stars-programme/
Garden Centre Association