By exhibiting exceptional teamwork, boundless curiosity, and the utmost care, the Retail Operations Manager is to support the Director of Stores and District Managers as liaison between the stores and retail support departments.  Secondary responsibility of the position is to execute the directives, policies and procedures of the company to ensure customer service, product sales and profitability. 

Responsibilities:

• Works directly with the Director of Stores to develop strategies and action plans to ensure business plan objectives are met.
• Work with department managers to “gate keep” projects for the retail stores. Collaborate with department managers to ensure processes and timing of projects fit into the retail calendar and positively impact the business.
• Regular scheduled travel to Blick offices in Galesburg and Highland Park to attend/facilitate meetings. Regular travel to stores to work with store teams to identify areas of opportunity to positively impact the business.
• Oversee updates to Loss Prevention audits working with our Loss Prevention partner, manage Store Visit Review compliance and updates as required to meet business needs.
• Attend strategic meetings and collaborate with department managers to execute leadership initiatives.
• Support the District Managers by being a liaison between the retail field and the office staff.
• Partner with the Director of stores to communicate initiatives to the stores.
• Monitors progress of all training initiatives and regularly communicate with the Retail training manager, Human Resources and senior management on progress and needs of the field team.
• Update and develop the policies and procedures to meet the changing business needs.
• Ensures that appropriate information is communicated to all field employees in a timely and appropriate manner including; directives, initiatives, general information, feedback, etc.
• Analyze and identify areas of opportunity for stores and districts, working with the Director of Stores to design a plan to improve performance.
• The position includes all other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements for the position include:

• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field recommended.
• 10 years' progressively responsive retail management experience.
• 5+ years' experience managing multiple stores.
• Basic computer skills, including email, experience with Microsoft office products, etc.
• Ability to break down complex problems into organized, succinct terms and communicate effectively to cross functional team members.
• Extensive experience and ability to excel in delivering a high level of customer service in a brand image retailer.
• Retail operations, budgeting, planning, customer service, sales and people management experience.
  
  

General Requirements:

• Ability to travel on a weekly basis 40-50% of the time, with some projects requiring more travel.
• Self-motivating with an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Excellent time management skills to complete time sensitive projects while adapting to changing circumstances.
• Available to work day/evening shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Prolonged walking and standing.
• Ability to lift and carry 40 lbs. using appropriate lifting techniques and adhering to all safety rules.

Founded in 1911, Blick Art Materials is in its third generation of family ownership and is the largest and oldest provider of art supplies in the United States.   

At Blick Art Materials, our family owners and dedicated staff support the Visual Art Community by providing the widest selection of art supplies at the lowest prices. With extraordinary service and integrity, we strive to provide artists, educators, students, and our associates with the tools, assistance, and training they need to grow, innovate, and reach their creative potential.