Boutique Manager

Key responsibilities:

Retail operations & sales:

• Oversee daily store operations, ensuring a clean, organized, and visually appealing environment.
• Achieve sales targets by effectively managing inventory, merchandising, and promotional activities.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase foot traffic and customer loyalty.
• Process sales transactions accurately using the POS system and handle cash, credit, and gift card payments.
• Manage opening and closing procedures, including cash reconciliation and security protocols.
• Monitor and manage store expenses within budget.

Inventory management:

• Conduct regular inventory counts and manage stock levels to prevent overstocking or stockouts.
• Place orders with suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, and build strong vendor relationships.
• Receive, unpack, and organize incoming merchandise efficiently.

Customer service excellence:

• Provide exceptional customer service, offering expert advice on yarn types, patterns, tools, and craft techniques.
• Handle customer inquiries, complaints, and returns professionally and efficiently, aiming for satisfactory resolutions.
• Build strong relationships with customers, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Learning sessions & community engagement:

• Develop, schedule, and promote a diverse range of knitting, crochet, and craft workshops.
• Oversee the registration process for classes and manage class sizes.
• Ensure class materials and equipment are readily available and in good condition.
• Organize and host crafting events, "knit nights," and community gatherings to engage customers.
• Utilize social media and local marketing to promote classes and store events.

Marketing & merchandising:

• Collaborate with the owner to develop marketing strategies and promotional campaigns.
• Manage the store's social media presence with engaging content.
• Stay updated on industry trends, new products, and popular craft techniques.

Administrative duties:

• Maintain accurate sales records, customer data, and employee files.
• Generate regular reports on sales performance, inventory, and class registrations.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and retail regulations.

Education & experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of proven retail management experience, with a strong preference for experience in specialty retail such as craft stores, hobby shops, or boutiques.
• Demonstrable experience in managing a team.
• Experience with POS systems, inventory management software, and basic accounting principles.

Skills & knowledge:

• Knowledge in knitting and crochet: basic or beginner knowledge in both knitting and crochet.
• Business acumen: strong understanding of retail metrics, sales forecasting, inventory control, and profit margins.
• Leadership & team building: proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing team.
• Exceptional customer service: a genuine passion for helping customers, with a friendly, patient, and approachable demeanor.
• Communication skills: excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with customers, staff, suppliers, and for marketing purposes.
• Organizational skills: highly organized with strong attention to detail, capable of managing multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Problem-solving: ability to identify issues, analyze problems, and implement effective solutions.
• Marketing & social media savvy: experience in utilizing social media for business promotion and engaging with online communities.
• Adaptability: ability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment and adapt to changing trends and customer demands.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Google Workspace.