Director of Operations

Skagit Valley Food Co-Op•Mount Vernon, NY

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Operations plays a critical role in achieving Skagit Valley Food Co-op’s sales, labor, and profit margin goals while operating within the Co-op’s mission. This role is responsible for maintaining efficient operational procedures that also support Co-op staff in providing the highest possible level of customer service and experience. The Operations Director also focuses on company culture and providing staff support, development, and recognition. This position is accountable to the General Manager. Directs and supervises all the store’s Department Managers (Grocery, Produce, Meat & Seafood, Cashier, Wellness, Mercantile, and Garden). Works in conjunction with the Prepared Foods Director, Marketing Director, Facilities Director, and Human Resources Director. Interacts with members, the general community, vendors, employees, the cooperative community, and the Co-op’s Board of Directors.

Requirements

5+ years’ experience in management in the food retail/grocery industry.
Specialized knowledge: grocery retail working knowledge, to include profit and loss analysis, buying, budgeting, merchandising, inventory control, margin control, labor control, and customer service.
Special skills: computer knowledge (Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook) and data analysis.
Supervisory skills: proven experience of at least 3-5 years.
Demonstrated interpersonal and leadership skills.

Nice To Haves

Strong conflict resolution skills and leadership modeling.

Responsibilities

Ensures that the practices of the Co-op and the policies in the Employee Handbook are fairly and consistently enforced.
Ensures that all grievance procedures and disciplinary procedures are followed.
In conjunction with the GM, assists in the preparation of the annual budget in the area of sales, margin, and inventory.
In conjunction with the GM, assists in the preparation of the annual Business plan.
Implements budget in daily operations with timely reviews for adjustments.
Plans and develops department specific annual plans and goals with department managers.
On a regular basis, reviews and responds to feedback from members/customers and Department Managers.
Ensures that pricing follows local market developments, and general consumer trends.
Directs the daily operations of the store.
Ensures regular in-store promotions, displays, and sampling events.
Participates in developing the strategy of store promotions and displays.
Ensures that the Co-op coordinates accurate quarterly inventory counts.
Supports the Category Manager by advising best practices for inventory management systems.
Works with the Facilities Director to ensure Co-op operating equipment is regularly maintained and cared for.
Ensures Department Managers maintain equipment with regular cleanings and preventative maintenance.
Coordinates with other Directors to help ensure the success of the Co-op.
Participates in developing strategies for the Co-op’s growth.
Performs other tasks assigned by the GM.
Collaborates with all other Directors to maintain consistent internal communications.
In conjunction with the GM, participates in the hiring, development, retention, and performance reviews of direct reports.
Is responsive to issues that affect employee satisfaction and/or understanding.
In conjunction with the HR Director, develops programs to recognize and appreciate employees.
In conjunction and under the direction of the GM, educates employees in product knowledge, environment awareness, safety standards, job skills, and the business of the Co-op.
Direct Department Managers to conduct timely and meaningful performance evaluations.
Consults with employees as needed and requested.
Supports and promotes ways to actualize the Co-op’s mission and vision.
Models the Behavioral Standards.
Identifies and develops solutions to problems.
Helps to manage and balance change.
Understands the Personnel Policies and is able to answer employee questions.
Is prepared to discuss department and individual issues in regular meetings with the GM.
Observes safety and health standards; applies the principles of accident prevention; maintains a safe work environment.
Seeks ways to improve the Co-op through customer service, operations, and merchandising.