The basic function of the Associate Manager position is to directly manage the productivity of all store staff on behalf of the owner/manager to ensure the store is effectively merchandised to maximize sales/profitability. The Associate Store Manager shares responsibility for labour cost and other key financial measures. The Associate Store Manager assumes overall responsibility for operational effectiveness of the store in absence of the owner/manager.
Job Responsibility:
Promote and ensure a consistently high standard of customer service
Train and motivate staff
Provide a positive working environment, coach, advise and listen to employee problems/issues
Prepare, post and change work schedule to schedule staff appropriately to meet the business needs
Delegate and prioritize workload for staff
Effectively merchandise advertising and promotional programs to maximize Corporate brand advantage
Maintain up to date information about market trends and competitor activities
Coordinate the receiving, handling and storing of product to achieve optimal results
Maintain Category sets, mixing for profit as required
Utilizing shipment reports, exclusivity reports and Head Office flash reports, ensure overall store profitability
Work with Sales representatives to negotiate credits, display merchandising and order levels
Provide accurate, effective purchasing/ordering for store specifically for Cutter/UPP bookings and seasonal bookings
Maintain appropriate inventory levels through effective ordering and rotation
Ensure pricing integrity
Coordination of employee activities on a daily basis; act as a resource for employees; referring complex issues to the Owner; provide input into the performance management process
Any other duties that may be required to ensure courteous friendly service, competitively priced products, and a store that meets and maintains the hygiene standards specified
Experience Requirements:
Ability to manage people - **years of management experience
Ability to work with minimal functional direction
Demonstrated understanding of critical success factors for the nofrills concept as a discount food store focusing on low price image
Demonstrated understanding of an Associate Store Manager's impact on store performance in the areas of:
Customer service
Employee relations
Merchandising
Sales/Profits
Strong communication skills including verbal, written and active listening
Demonstrated Customer focus and commitment to superior customer service
Issue management skills (time management; interpersonal skills; conflict management; information gathering skills; problem solving; team building skills to develop collaborative working relationships)
Open availability and flexibility to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays according to the needs of the business
Strong knowledge of all aspect of the produce area, operations and products