Retail Store Manager

San Diego, CA

Full Time, On Site

Compensation: $70000-72000

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Retirement Contribution

Paid Time Off

Access to On-Campus Fitness Centers

Professional Development Opportunities

University Employee Benefits

About the Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Retail Store Manager to lead the daily operations of a high-profile retail environment serving a vibrant campus community. This role is responsible for driving sales, managing inventory, leading merchandise buying, developing team members, and creating an exceptional customer experience.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on retail leader with strong merchandising instincts, financial acumen, and a passion for developing people while delivering operational excellence.

Position Overview

The Retail Store Manager oversees all aspects of store operations, including merchandising, purchasing, inventory management, staffing, financial performance, customer service, and promotional planning.

This role works closely with vendors, internal departments, and leadership to ensure the store remains profitable, well-stocked, visually appealing, and aligned with organizational goals.

Key Responsibilities

Store Leadership

Lead the daily operation of the retail store

Recruit, train, coach, and develop retail team members

Create employee schedules and manage staffing needs

Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and exceptional customer service

Lead by example and maintain high operational standards

Merchandising & Buying

Develop merchandise assortments and purchasing strategies

Forecast inventory needs and sales trends

Partner with vendors to source new products and negotiate purchasing opportunities

Monitor product assortment, pricing, and inventory levels

Stay current on retail and merchandise trends

Create attractive product displays that maximize sales

Operations Management

Manage inventory control and purchasing systems

Oversee daily opening, closing, cash handling, and operational procedures

Coordinate promotions, sales events, and seasonal merchandising

Maintain accurate inventory records and reporting

Ensure the store remains clean, organized, and fully stocked

Support e-commerce product management and pricing updates

Financial Performance

Monitor sales performance and inventory turnover

Manage gross margin objectives and purchasing budgets

Analyze sales reports and identify opportunities to improve profitability

Control expenses while maintaining high service standards

Partner with leadership to achieve financial goals

Customer Experience

Deliver an exceptional shopping experience for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors

Maintain high customer service standards throughout the store

Resolve customer concerns professionally and efficiently

Create an inviting retail environment that encourages repeat business

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree preferred

Equivalent retail management experience may be considered

Minimum 5 years of retail management experience

Minimum 5 years of merchandise buying experience

Experience with apparel, gifts, specialty retail, or bookstore operations preferred

Strong knowledge of inventory management, purchasing, merchandising, and retail financials

Experience managing budgets, margins, inventory turns, and forecasting

Knowledge of POS systems and inventory management software

Strong Microsoft Office and Google Workspace skills

Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills

Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as business needs require

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced retail leader who enjoys combining operations, merchandising, and team development in a dynamic environment. The position offers the chance to make a meaningful impact while leading a well-established retail operation with strong organizational support and outstanding employee benefits.