Store Manager

Job description / Role

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.

The store manager will be responsible for the overall operations, profitability, and customer experience of our yarn and craft store, which specializes in high-quality yarns, knitting, crochet, and other craft supplies. A key aspect of this role involves overseeing and facilitating our in-store learning sessions, including knitting and crochet classes for all skill levels. The ideal candidate will be a passionate crafter with strong retail management experience, excellent interpersonal skills, and a genuine desire to foster a vibrant and inspiring creative community.