Retail Store Manager

Drive the Success of Our Flagship Store in Missoula, MT

Montana Knife Company is seeking a seasoned Retail Manager to spearhead the launch of our new flagship store in Missoula, MT. This key location will be the foundation of our brand's emerging retail presence.

The ideal candidate will excel in a dynamic, fast-paced entrepreneurial setting and have a genuine passion for the outdoors. They will be pivotal in promoting MKC's unique brand within the local community through strategic marketing, event planning, and exceptional store management.

About the Role:

MKC is seeking a Retail Manager to lead our flagship Missoula, MT store. Key responsibilities for this role include delivering top-notch customer service, maximizing sales productivity, making effective merchandising decisions, managing staff effectively, maintaining inventory accuracy, and ensuring the store's profitability.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure operational standards are met for team success, capitalizing on exceptional service, visual merchandising, and product knowledge.
• Provide leadership and direction to the retail store and coffee shop teams, and successfully execute company strategies.
• Lead the hiring, onboarding, and integration of team members, including the coffee shop.
• Design and execute a structured onboarding and training program for new sales associates, covering company history, product knowledge, customer service standards, sales techniques, and store operations.
• Develop a comprehensive sales manual that includes POS system instructions, store policies, customer engagement best practices, and security protocols to ensure consistency and efficiency among team members.
• Create efficient and effective schedules for your team.
• Encourage a positive and enthusiastic work environment through promotion of teamwork, collaboration, and open communication.
• Build loyalty and satisfaction with customers through positive interactions, relationship building activities, and prompt resolution of any issue.
• Identify local marketing opportunities to further engagement in the community.
• Coordinate and execute store events, building community relationships for brand awareness.
• Collaborate with industry partners to negotiate contracts, oversee compliance, and evaluate product performance.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with vendors and other key stakeholders.
• Manage back-of-house logistics; cash drawer, spreadsheets, receipts, bank deposits and inventory organization.
• Run daily metrics to determine team performance and impact, develop action plans, set goals and execute.
• Collaborate with our online store team to ensure consistency across all sales channels and provide seamless customer experiences.
• Uphold brand standards and take initiative, identify escalating issues and partner with cross-functional teams for solutions.
• Monitor and adjust store performance against retail KPIs and goals; analyze business results and collaborate on strategic plans with the Executive Team.

Qualifications:

• Visual Merchandising experience is preferred.
• Vendor management and contract negotiation.
• Ability to prioritize and manage conflicting demands.
• Working knowledge of MS Office products.
• Experience with TOAST or other POS systems.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in a fast-paced, high-volume retail environment.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in a specialty retail environment, preferably in the outdoor industry.
• Experience planning and executing store community participation and events.
• High level of ownership, accountability, and initiative with success in achieving sales and profit results.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to handle customer concerns proactively.
• Flexible schedule availability, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Ability to build, lead, and manage high-performing teams.
• Ability to travel up to 10%.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay based on experience and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.