Summary of the Position
The Emerging Store Operations Manager (ESOM) is a developmental leadership role designed to prepare high-potential associates for future Store Operations Manager (SOM) opportunities. Working alongside Store Operations and Zone Managers, the ESOM develops the operational, financial, and leadership skills necessary to successfully manager a retail store.
The ESOM development program is designed to be completed within approximately three (3) to six (6) months through structured training in store operations, financial management, personnel development, inventory control, customer service, and regulatory compliance. This position supports all training competencies while driving top line sales. This role requires travel to stores within the assigned zone as needed for training, development, special projects, and business needs.
Advancement to a Store Operations Manager (SOM) position is based on successful completion of objectives, demonstrated leadership competency, business needs, and the availability of an open position.
If developmental objectives are not achieved within the expected timeframe, management will determine the appropriate next steps based on performance, business needs, and the current retail organizational structure.
Key Essential Responsibilities
o Assist in planning daily operations while developing skills in scheduling, delegation, coaching, performance management, and team leadership. o Build and maintain positive customer relations through personal selling, customer engagement, and support of associates in delivering a best-in-class customer experience.
o Support daily store operations while exemplifying the company’s culture and established leadership standards.
o Assist in planning and prioritizing daily operations while developing skills in scheduling, delegation, coaching, performance management, and team leadership.
o Complete assigned leadership development assignments, operational improvement projects, and cross-functional training within established timelines. o Serve as Manager-on-Duty as assigned. Revised 07/16/26
o Support Inventory control, audits, shrink reduction, facility standards, operational safety, compliance with company policies, and applicable state motor vehicle safety and emissions regulations.
o Develop an understanding of store financial performance by analyzing sales, payroll, inventory investment, gross profit, expenses, and other key performance metrics while partnering with SOM to identify opportunities for improvement.
o All other duties as assigned by management.
Qualifications
Experience/Education/Other Requirements
o One (1) to three (3) years of retail, automotive, customer service, or supervisory experience.
o Demonstrated leadership potential with a desire to advance into a SOM role.
o Must possess and maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license and be insurable through our insurance company.
o Some college coursework or previous leadership experience preferred.
o Ability and willingness to travel throughout the assigned region to support training, development, and business needs.
o Ability to work extended workdays (8-12 Hours on occasion), including evenings, Saturdays, and assigned closing shifts.
o Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
o Ability to work in close proximity to others and utilize shared equipment.
o Strong communication, analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills with the ability to learn operational, financial, and personal management skills.