Cultivator.

Business is blooming at 1-800-FLOWERS.COM. Despite the dot-com in its name, customers can still dial up the company's original sales channel -- toll-free telephone shopping -- or visit its retail stores for an array of merchandise that isn't just flora any more. But its fastest-growing arm -- up 98 percent in the fiscal year ended June 27,1999 -- is the Internet. Appropriately enough, to mitigate the pressures of tending the finances of this newly public and nearly $300-million enterprise, John Smolak, senior vice president of finance and administration and CEO, enjoys nurturing the garden at his New Jersey home.

Born Dec. 5, 1948

Married Spouse of 21 years, Nancy, is an actress and model

Off hours Reading, gardening. Not surprisingly, synopsizes his current favorite book -- History of God: The 4000-Year Quest of Judaism, Christianity and Islam -- in horticultural terms. "It's an enlightening perspective on the three religions and their historic roots," he says. Avid golfer. Also enjoys travel and recently returned from two weeks in Italy.

Schooling BA in psychology, University of Connecticut. MS in systems management, University of Southern California. MBA in finance, Wharton.

Career history Management consultant at Booz, Allen & Hamilton. Corporate finance and division CFQ at Marriott Corp. CFO of both LensCrafters and Lechters, Inc.

FEI chapter New Jersey

Best teams he's been on "Beginning with the U.S. Marine Corps, which is the standard for 'esprit de corps,' I have subsequently been privileged in my relationships at Marriott and LensCrafters, two organizations lauded for management excellence. And the 1-800-FLOWERS.COM team has developed nicely. It's collegial, balanced and focused."

Best business advice "Think strategic but be practical in day-to-day management. And do not underestimate the importance of good communications, especially in a service-oriented business where execution is critical to success."

Proudest career moment and favorite deal In August 1999, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM went public. "Convincing potential investors of the company's merits was easy. However, the process of transacting the IPO required tremendous effort and coordination of external and internal resources. I'm proud of the way the team came together."

Time-management tips Especially likes three of Stephen Covey's seven tips for highly effective people: Start with the end in mind; first things first; measure twice, cut once. With this approach, "Things take on a more appropriate perspective and order can be brought to chaos."

Stress-management tip A good exercise routine

Worst summer job Worked in the maintenance department of an industrial company while in college. "I had to work in an enclosed metal box in which the temperature rose above 100 degrees. My task was to clean the filters of metal dust from the machining of parts. That was a two-week assignment wouldn't wish on anybody. It makes you appreciate certain advantages in life."

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