Position Summary

The Store lead oversees daily operations of a specialty food and wine retail store, ensuring exceptional customer service, strong sales performance, inventory accuracy, staff development, and compliance with all food safety and alcohol regulations. This role combines retail leadership, merchandising, hospitality, and product expertise to create a welcoming and profitable shopping experience.

Key Responsibilities

Store Operations
•  Manage day-to-day retail operations, including opening and closing procedures
•  Maintain store appearance, cleanliness, and merchandising standards
•  Manage inventory levels and coordinate product ordering, receiving, and reordering
•  Ensure accurate pricing, labeling, and stock rotation
•  Oversee cash handling, POS systems, and daily sales reconciliation
•  Manage sales, pricing, margin and waste
•  Basic food preparation, assembling cheese and charcuterie plates and other small bites.

Customer Experience
•  Deliver exceptional customer service and create a clean and welcoming environment
•  Provide recommendations on wine, cheese, gourmet foods, and specialty products
•  Resolve customer concerns professionally and efficiently
•  Build relationships with regular customers and local community partners

Sales & Merchandising
•  Drive sales through product promotions, seasonal displays, and events
•  Analyze sales trends and adjust merchandising strategies accordingly
•  Collaborate with vendors and distributors on featured products and promotions
•  Maintain attractive and informative product displays

Team Leadership
•  Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise store staff
•  Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching
•  Foster a positive, collaborative, and service-focused workplace culture
•  Ensure proper staffing levels during peak business periods

Compliance & Safety
•  Ensure compliance with alcohol sales laws and age-verification procedures
•  Maintain food safety and sanitation standards
•  Follow all company policies, licensing requirements, and health regulations
•  Monitor loss prevention and store security practices

Qualifications
•  3+ years of retail management experience, preferably in specialty food, wine, grocery, or hospitality
•  Knowledge of wine varietals, gourmet foods, and pairing recommendations preferred
•  Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
•  Experience with inventory management and retail POS systems
•  Must work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
•  Must meet legal requirements for alcohol sales certification (if applicable)

Preferred Qualifications
•  Wine certification or wine education coursework
•  Experience planning tastings, events, or community outreach programs
•  Background in gourmet grocery, cheese shops, wine bars, or upscale retail

Physical Requirements
•  Ability to stand for extended periods
•  Ability to lift and carry up to 40-50 pounds
•  Comfortable working in refrigerated storage areas when necessary

#WJ-DTC-ASC-ON-FT