Retail Operations Manager

Bates College • Lewiston, ME

28d • $49,417 - $61,772 • Onsite

About The Position

The Retail Operations Manager holds a key leadership position focused on the Retail Operations segment, specifically overseeing the Bobcat Den and the Curb Cat Food Truck. This role encompasses both strategic planning support and front-line leadership. Functioning as the principal on-site leader, the Manager translates the organization’s operational standards into consistent daily execution throughout the retail dining domain.

Requirements

• High School diploma required.
• Driver's license required.
• Minimum of six years’ food service experience.
• Previous experience in a faced paced commercial restaurant required.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion, and serving the needs of a culturally and educationally diverse community.
• Commitment to customer service.
• Demonstrated ability to teach others.
• Exemplary organizational and time management skills are a must.
• Ability to multi-task with an eye for detail.
• Understands and thrives in a high volume food service environment.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field desired.
• Serve Safe certification preferred.
• Previous experience in a collegiate food service environment desired.
• Previous supervisory experience desired.

Responsibilities

• Lead the hiring, onboarding, and continuous professional development of retail associates and culinary personnel through collaboration with college colleagues and professional organizations.
• Manage retail operations scheduling, assign daily tasks, and strategically adjust coverage to manage staff absences.
• Provide clear direction and guidance on procedures; motivate retail associates and assistant managers while acting as the first line of intervention for conflict resolution.
• Ensure smooth, efficient daily openings and closings, maintaining high operational standards and overseeing necessary technology systems.
• Oversee food preparation, presentation, and portion control to ensure consistency, high quality, and compliance with shift/production checklists.
• Assist with menu development and food costing initiatives.
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee special Retail Operations events (including Bobcat Breaks, student events, and Curb Cat Events).
• Monitor inventory levels, oversee regular counts, track requisitions, and manage stock replenishment.
• Partner with vendors to ensure the product mix remains current, diverse, and appealing to the campus demographic.
• Ensure all retail merchandise is displayed correctly in an appealing way in order to drive sales.
• Enforce strict adherence to all food safety, health, and hygiene regulations, ensuring kitchens, storage areas, dining rooms, and equipment remain clean and sanitized.
• Implement and monitor safety protocols for all staff; maintain a high level of safety awareness and ensure any workplace injuries are reported within 24 hours.
• Champion sound environmental practices on the job, including composting, recycling, and active waste reduction.
• Set the standard for exceptional customer service, aiming for top-tier interactions across all touchpoints.
• Cultivate a positive, inclusive workplace rooted in open, two-way communication and deep respect for diversity.
• Build robust, collaborative partnerships with colleagues across the Dining department and the broader college community.
• Maintain flexibility to support other operational areas and execute assigned duties with professionalism.

Benefits

• health, dental, 9% retirement contribution with potential for an additional 3% match, sick leave, 24 days of vacation, 2 personal days, 13 paid holidays, dependent care subsidy, free parking, access to library and athletic facilities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED