The Store Manager is responsible for building and supporting a high performing sales culture, maintaining a strategic view of store talent needs, recruiting, and developing talent, analyzing relevant data to inform store-specific strategies, being role model and champion for Ashley's Core & Growth Values to create a strong brand perception so that the store becomes the destination of choice for home furnishing needs.
The Store Manager is a role model for building and maintaining the guest relationships that are the foundation of the Company's retail sales success. This position hires, trains, supervises, and develops Sales Manager and other store employees in the implementation of the Company's sales approach, oversees overall operational functions of the store, and maintains compliance with the Company's policies and operating procedures to ensure the delivery of an exceptional in-store experience for every guest that results in increased store sales, profitability and customer loyalty.
Leadership and Team Management
Recruit, onboard, train, supervise, develop, and motivate a team of Sales Managers, sales associates, cashiers, customer service, and support staff.
Cultivate a positive and collaborative work environment that fosters high performance and low turnover.
Conduct or oversee performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and development opportunities.
Ensure strategic engagement - e.g. lead huddles that align every decision in the store with the company strategy.
Serve as a role model of Ashley's Core & Growth Values.
Design/shape the vision for training content provided to all associates.
Sales and Revenue Growth
Develop and implement sales and promotions to achieve sales targets and exceed revenue goals.
Analyze sales data and identify areas for improvement.
Motivate and coach store team to deliver exceptional customer service and close sales.
Develop sales and profit goals.
Help establish Ashley as the premier destination in the market for home furnishings.
Have a strong understanding of selling system/ standards for selling aligned to company strategy - high performing sales culture.
Use of analytics/ insights to take advantage of hidden opportunities/ improve selling.
Sell consistently to every guest and align selling strategy with company standards (e.g. we are not a discount seller)
Store Operations and Inventory Management
Ensure smooth operation of all store functions, including merchandising, inventory management scheduling and cash handling.
Maintain a clean, organized and visually appealing showroom environment.
Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with vendors and suppliers.
Manage and optimize inventory levels to meet customer demand and minimize cost.
Create enticing visual presentation (e.g. knowing what "good" looks like and partnering with the visual team to optimize) and consistent maintenance of the store.
Help create general associate standards and support for the guest.
Participate in training program for sales and operations activities (e.g. selling is more than just active engagement with the guest - store must be set right to win)
Provide relevant insights on offers, assortment and selling process/ standards, etc. to ensure success is expanded.
Pursue opportunities to reduce waste (cost) and enable reinvestment in the business (growth)
Inventory management (protect profit everywhere to enable continued investment in sales drivers)
Assortment optimization (e.g. velocity walks/ optimizing the floor to win in the local market)
Maintain an efficient warehouse and product lifecycle plan (e.g. manage costs and ensure relevant assortment on the floor)
Customer Service Excellence
Foster a customer-centric culture throughout the store.
Exceed customer expectations by providing exceptional service and resolving any issues promptly and professionally.
Empower store team to resolve customer issues efficiently and with empathy.
Track and analyze customer feedback to identify areas for improvement.
Community Engagement
Develop and maintain strong relationships with customers, building loyalty and repeat business.
Customer Engagement/ Full Customer Lifecycle Management
Financial Management and Budgeting
Develop and manage store budgets, ensuring, efficient and responsible use of resources.
Monitor key financial metrics and track progress against targets.
Report financial performance to management.
Demonstrate the company's core growth values in the performance of all job functions.
Maintain reliable attendance.
Actively participate in departmental meetings, training and education. Assist with training other employees and providing backup.
Complete other assignments and special projects as requested.
Qualifications
Associate degree in Business Administration or related field or equivalent work experience, Required
5 years' experience in retail sales, Required
Supervisory/Management experience, Required
Strong knowledge of furniture products and styles
Strong business knowledge with basic financial acumen
Exceptional relationship building skills
Excellent interpersonal skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong attention to detail
Effective time management and organizational skills
Work independently as well as in a team environment
Analytical and problem solving skills
Maintain confidentiality
Working knowledge of Continuous Improvement
Handle multiple projects simultaneously within established time constraints
Proficient computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite, internet
Proficient with various mobile devices
Perform under strong demands in a fast-paced environment
Work professionally with customers and co-workers to efficiently serve our customers, treating both with enthusiasm and respect
Display empathy, understanding and patience with employees and external customers
Respond professionally in situations with difficult employee/vendor/customer issues or inquiries
Occasional Domestic Travel
Flexible and willing to work extended hours when necessary.
Demonstrate the company's core growth values in the performance of all job functions.
Maintain reliable attendance.
Actively participate in departmental meetings, training and education. Assist with training other employees and providing backup.
Complete other assignments and special projects as requested.
We are an equal opportunity employer and provide a drug free working environment. While Ashley appreciates the interest of all candidates, only those meeting specific position requirements may be contacted. Principals only.