Home Improvement Department Manager at Smith & Edwards Co.

Job Title: Retail Department Manager - Home Improvement, e.g., Plumbing & Electrical, Lawn & Garden, Building Materials, Paint & Hardware

Location: Ogden, UT 84404

About Us: We are a leading active lifestyle retailer, dedicated to providing our community with high-quality products, exceptional service, and expert advice for all their DIY and professional project needs. We foster a collaborative and customer-focused environment, empowering our team to help our neighbors build and create.

Job Summary: The Retail Department Manager is a key leadership role responsible for the day-to-day operations and performance of our home improvement departments within our diverse stores. This individual will drive sales, manage inventory, ensure outstanding customer service, and lead a team of associates within their designated area. The ideal candidate will possess strong product knowledge related to their home improvement, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for helping customers achieve their home improvement goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Department Operations & Performance:

  • Oversee daily operations of the home improvement departments (e.g., Plumbing, Electrical, Lumber, Paint, Hardware, Garden, Tools).

  • Develop and execute strategies to achieve and exceed sales targets, gross margin goals, and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the department.

  • Monitor and analyze departmental sales data, inventory levels, and operational costs to identify trends and implement effective strategies.

  • Ensure compliance with all company policies, procedures, and safety regulations within the department.

  • Manage departmental expenses and labor costs within budgetary guidelines.

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized department, including aisles, displays, and storage areas.

• Team Leadership & Development:

  • Train, coach, and motivate a team of retail associates within the department to deliver exceptional performance and customer service.

  • Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to foster employee growth and engagement.

  • Create and manage weekly work schedules to ensure adequate staffing levels and efficient coverage.

  • Promote a positive and collaborative team environment, fostering strong communication and accountability.

  • Assist in the recruitment and onboarding of new departmental team members.

• Customer Experience:

  • Ensure all customers receive prompt, courteous, and knowledgeable assistance specific to the department's products and services.

  • Resolve customer inquiries, issues, and complaints effectively and professionally, turning challenges into positive experiences.

  • Train associates on in-depth product knowledge, selling techniques, and how to effectively recommend solutions for customer projects.

  • Proactively engage with customers to understand their needs and guide them to the right products.

• Merchandising & Inventory Management:

  • Execute merchandising plans, ensuring products are accurately priced, well-stocked, and visually appealing according to company standards.

  • Monitor inventory levels, conduct regular cycle counts, and manage product replenishment and returns to minimize out-of-stocks and overstock.

  • Oversee the proper receiving, unpacking, and stocking of merchandise within the department.

  • Identify and address opportunities for improved product placement and display.

  • Stay informed about new products, industry trends, and competitor activities relevant to the department.

• Safety & Compliance:

  • Ensure all departmental activities are conducted in adherence to safety protocols and company guidelines (e.g., proper lifting techniques, safe use of equipment, handling of hazardous materials if applicable).

  • Conduct regular safety inspections within the department and report any concerns.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of 5 years of retail experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role, preferably within a home improvement, hardware, or big-box retail environment.

• Demonstrated strong product knowledge specific to your departments, e.g., plumbing, electrical, lumber, paint, gardening, power tools.

• Proven ability to drive sales, manage departmental budgets, and achieve operational goals.

• Excellent leadership, communication (verbal and written), and interpersonal skills.

• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

• Proficiency with retail point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as business needs dictate.

• Ability to lift and move merchandise up to 50 pounds regularly and stand/walk for extended periods.

What We Offer:

• Competitive hourly wage/salary with performance incentives.

• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401K with company match, paid time off).

• Opportunities for career advancement within our organization.

• A supportive and team-oriented work environment.

• Excellent employee discount.

Store hours: Hours of operation are 9 am - 8 pm Monday - Friday. 9 am - 6 pm Saturday. Closed Sundays and major holidays. Saturday availability is required. Must have availability within store hours. Reliability and punctuality are required.

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