Retail Operations Manager

The Retail Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of Neighborly, making sure it runs smoothly and effectively. They will operate in direct support role to the business owner and location managers, and be responsible for managing the team of six to ten retail assistants who staff two brick and mortar locations in Wicker Park and Lincoln Square, and its seasonal location on the Chicago Riverwalk. They are enthusiastic, energetic, efficient, and kind, and are willing to wear a wide variety of hats expected in a small business. A “work smarter” initiative is a must.

In all, this role will be responsible for many facets of the business, from large, strategic projects like developing and implementing a sales training program to small, day-to-day physical tasks like transferring inventory between its locations.

Duties include: - Sales & Personnel: recruiting, motivating, and training the sales team- Marketing: assisting with marketing strategy, planning, and implementation- Customer Experience: create and implement a system for keeping the stores clean, stocked, organized, and merchandised, delegate tasks as needed- Assist Owner with Inventory Management: product discovery and purchasing, closely following sales data, home decor trends, sourcing new products, inventory planning, etc.- Community Outreach: vendor relationship management and development, community outreach and promotions, special event management Key responsibilities:PERSONNEL & COMMUNICATIONRecruit, hire, train, and manage retail associates. Manage store staffing and shop hours.Lead regular staff meetings, ongoing training, and team-building activities.Manage performance development including reviews, individual development plans and disciplinary action for a productive, inspired, and successful team.LEADERSHIP & OPERATIONSAssist in development and roll-out of all new training program and operational initiatives.Maintain our employee handbook and store processes guides. Direct sales associates on special projects during down time. Uphold Company standards and act as a mentor, teacher and positive role model to others.CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS Oversee all levels of customer service and ensure a positive store environment.Facilitate campaigns to honor customer loyalty and show appreciation. STORE PRESENTATION & MERCHANDISINGExhibit excellent floor presence by leading by example and coaching the store team on customer service, merchandising, and time management standards.Assist in seasonal merchandising plans and implementation of product and window displaysOversee Location Managers to ensure prompt ordering of store supplies, notification of maintenance issues, and successful execution of their other duties.PROMOTIONS In collaboration with Owner, plan and execute store sales and seasonal promotions.Coordinate logistics and staff for in-store and offsite events and experiences.Contribute content for social media and email newslettersAssist with implementation of marketing collateral. BUYING & INVENTORY PLANNINGIn collaboration with Owner, discover new vendors and products by closely following home decor and design trends, may include attending trade shows and markets from time to time.Plan inventory ordering for holidays, seasons, and special promotions.Place purchase orders, assist retail associates with receiving new product and resolving order issues.Special projects as assigned. Key skills:Enjoys building a rapport and anticipates the needs of employees and customersExcellent communication in all formsOrganized & thoughtfulResourceful & adaptable, DIY/bootstrap mentalityStrong team builderCreative problem-solver and efficient time managementConsistent, self-driven follow-throughEnthusiastic & friendly, particularly to the team and customersConfidence to speak their mind, yet receptive to criticism. Leaves any ego at the doorThis position can be somewhat tailored to candidate’s strengths and past experiences. Schedule and Compensation: Neighborly offers a non-traditional work schedule to be roughly 80% of full time, but does require evening and weekend availability. Weekend assistance from Thanksgiving to Christmas will be required, as well as approximately 6-8 additional weekend needs the remainder of the year.- 30 hours per week, roughly 10 months of the year- 45 hours per week November and December- Ability to work 1-2 days per week on-site, staffing the stores (11a-7p) and 1 additional day transporting goods between locations and visiting retail associates, with remaining days as a work from home option once acclimated.

Neighborly offers competitive compensation, including benefits such as health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and employee discounts. Requirements: Candidates with experience and strengths in one or more of the following areas are preferred: human relations both internal (team building) and external (customers, vendors, and community), retail merchandising, boutique marketing strategy, retail or sales leader and/or training leader.

• At least 5 years working in a boutique, customer-centered retail environment. Retail team management experience strongly preferred.- Commitment to contributing to an inclusive and safe working environment.- Avid fan of independently made goods and believer in eco-friendly and ethically sourced products.- Demonstrated support of local craft and design communities.- Must bend, reach and stretch for products as well as lift, carry and move boxes that weigh up to 20 pounds, and be comfortable doing so on a regular basis.- Driver’s license required, personal vehicle use not required.- Ability to work flexible hours to meet the needs of the store.