Store Manager in Training

REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.)•Loveland, CO

18d

About The Position

The Store Manager in Training is a regional-market and store leader in a development role designed to prepare the employee to become an REI Store Manager. The position involves travel to multiple stores within the region for training and support. The employee assists the Store Manager or acts as Store Manager, focusing on the long-term health of the business and contributing to REI’s Member, Employee, Business, and Impact goals. The role supports a store culture aligned with REI’s Brand and the Co-op Way and helps ensure outstanding customer experiences and employee interactions. This position is a pipeline to future Store Manager responsibilities, including operating a profitable business, recruiting and developing talent, and building relationships that connect the store with its local community.

Requirements

Minimum 3–5 years of successful retail management experience.
Ability to understand and drive store profitability through service.
Leadership skills to recruit, hire, train, lead, motivate, retain, and develop future leaders.
Financial acumen, including budgeting and forecasting sales, gross margin, inventory turns, expense control, and net profit.
Proficiency in strategic planning and analysis.
Ability to create a welcoming, safe, mutually supportive culture of belonging where people can be themselves and do their best.

Responsibilities

Own the learning journey toward readiness for the Store Manager role and use training to demonstrate proficiency in its responsibilities.
Partner with the Store Manager and Regional Director to learn, develop skills, and execute Store Manager tasks.
Lead, motivate, and performance-manage managers and store staff to achieve REI’s Member, Employee, Business, and Impact goals.
When supporting or acting as Store Manager, hold the management team accountable for performance expectations and store standards; evaluate performance and provide coaching, feedback, and recognition.
Hold the management team accountable for hiring, onboarding, training, and employee development using REI practices.
Conduct quarterly review conversations and one-on-one meetings with direct reports for planning, feedback, and development.
Communicate clearly, concisely, and proactively to give the team direction and expectations.
Build and maintain relationships within the store and across the organization.
Partner with Human Resources to assist staff with benefits, accommodations, and other HR needs.
Monitor business performance, identify trends and opportunities, and coach managers to improve results.
Manage store profitability, financial budgeting, payroll, and operational excellence.
Advocate for store needs by building relationships with headquarters and district support partners.
Ensure management and store teams implement REI Standard Operating Procedures.
Oversee the daily function and condition of store facilities and promptly act on or request repairs.
Manage relationships with facilities vendors.
Maintain an engaging, inclusive, and welcoming environment for employees and customers.
Build community relationships that support business and recruiting and advocate for equitable access to outdoor spaces.
Perform other assigned duties and tasks.