Store Hardlines Manager #142 - Knoxville, TN

Academy•Knoxville, TN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

At Academy Sports + Outdoors, our vision is to be the best sports + outdoors retailer in the country. We are a passionate, purpose-driven team committed to each other and our customers. We have over 80 years of experience building a culture that puts people first, creating opportunities for growth, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting every Team Member’s journey. We believe in the power of fun, and this role is an opportunity to not just help customers gear up for their next adventure, but to launch one of your own. Academy is a place where fun can’t lose!

Requirements

Minimum of 3 years of relevant leadership or management experience required
Demonstrated success leading departments of up to 40 team members while driving operational excellence and achieving sales targets
Strong customer focus with a proven commitment to delivering exceptional service
Ability to analyze business results and translate insights into action
Clear and confident communication skills across diverse audiences
Comfort making decisions in a fast-paced, retail environment
Knowledge of operational processes, safety standards, and compliance requirements
Ability to complete required certifications, including Firearms Sales and Power Industrial Truck
A team-first attitude; while your core duties are your priority, you're happy to step in wherever you're needed
Flexibility to work varying schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs
Full-time position averaging 45-50 hours per week during peak times
Capability to remain on your feet and move throughout the store for extended periods during scheduled shifts
Ability to perform physical job functions such as walking, bending, reaching, pulling, carrying, and lifting items up to 50 lbs
Capacity to complete repetitive tasks, including scanning, stocking, and folding merchandise
Comfort using ladders or step stools to access merchandise as needed
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced retail environment while adapting to shifting priorities
Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties
Ability to adhere to company policies and professional standards

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred

Responsibilities

Own the day-to-day leadership and execution of dynamic and high-impact departments, including Camping, Fishing & Hunting, Outdoor, Firearms, and Team Sports.
Translate business priorities into clear actions for the team, ensuring readiness through strong merchandising, staffing, and operational discipline.
Directly influence sales results, customer trust, and overall store performance.
Drive operational excellence by planning labor, coaching leaders, and holding teams accountable to safety, compliance, and service standards.
Balance strategic thinking with hands-on problem-solving by walking departments, setting priorities, and reviewing performance metrics.
Turn feedback, data, and observation into improvements that elevate the customer experience and team engagement.
Partner closely with the Store Director and fellow store leaders to align on goals, priorities, and execution strategies.
Lead and develop Team Leads and Team Members, creating a culture of accountability, trust, and continuous improvement across all hardlines areas.
Collaborate with cross-functional partners, including operations and support teams, to ensure compliance, training completion, and consistent standards.
Connect company initiatives to real-world execution that benefits both customers and team members through daily communication and collaboration.
Manage and audit firearm sales, ensuring all transactions meet federal and state requirements through accurate completion of ATF Form 4473, background check verification, and final approval.