Department Manager GM

Follett Higher Education•Nashville, TN

About The Position

The Department Manager General Merchandise (GM) manages the General Merchandise department at a large store, including managing employee activities to meet the financial and marketing objectives of the company. The role coordinates sales promotions with the Home Office and manages their execution in the store. It also assists customers and suggests product selections based on product knowledge, familiarity with offerings, and customer interactions. The manager demonstrates strong knowledge of Follett systems and strategies, the industry, and the competitive landscape to execute initiatives, drive profitable sales, and control expenses. The role executes company programs and initiatives, ensures compliance with company policies and procedures, and partners with support teams including Store Operations, RCMS, AP, HR, and Training. The manager consistently demonstrates Follett Values and proficiency in Follett Strategic Competencies.

Requirements

3–5 years of relevant experience.
Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
3–5 years of retail supervisory experience.
Computer literacy and general computer skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Previous supervisory or management experience.

Responsibilities

Supervise department employees, including assigning and evaluating work and interviewing, hiring, and training new employees.
Supervise Home Office-regulated Return-to-Vendor (RTV) receiving and scanning processes.
Assist customers in finding products.
Manage special-order functions and notify customers.
Partner to create and maintain a Hassle Free customer service culture focused on solutions-based selling and an exceptional customer experience.
Build partnerships with store staff and campus organizations for promotional and special events, and assist with off-site sales opportunities such as graduation, basketball, football, and author signings.
Conduct daily store walkthroughs to ensure proper stock levels, inventory placement, and customer service levels.
Manage in-store merchandise displays from the stockroom to the sales floor, serving as the liaison between the Store and the Planner.
Create and maintain displays in compliance with company standards.
Execute Home Office-initiated markups and markdowns, analyze financial reports, process purchase orders, and approve invoices.
Partner with the Store Manager to execute promotions and sales and ensure proper inventory levels based on sales and trends.
May perform website maintenance and fill orders, while maintaining price accuracy and merchandise availability on the store website.
Respond to questions and issues from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other customers, resolving escalated issues as necessary.
May manage the store in the Store Manager's absence or occasionally supervise other departments.
May open or close the store.
Perform other related duties as assigned.