General Manager

The General Manager (GM) serves as the strategic and operational leader of a high-volume Ariat Retail location, driving business performance, team development, customer experience, and operational excellence. This role leads a store generating $10M+ in annual sales and acts as the key connection between store leadership teams and the Corporate Retail organization.

The GM is responsible for creating a high-performing, customer-focused culture while ensuring execution across all aspects of the business, including sales growth, talent development, operational efficiency, merchandising standards, and inventory management. The ideal candidate is an inspiring leader who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and is passionate about building strong teams and delivering exceptional brand experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Business Leadership & Store Performance

• Lead overall store performance, driving sales, profitability, and operational excellence
• Establish clear goals, performance expectations, and accountability across all departments
• Analyze business trends, KPIs, and retail performance metrics to identify opportunities and improve results
• Champion sales-driving initiatives, incentive programs, and customer engagement strategies
• Partner with Corporate Buying and Retail Leadership teams to align assortments and inventory with local customer needs
• Support and participate in community outreach, local partnerships, and store events that elevate the Ariat brand

Customer Experience & Brand Standards

• Foster a customer-first culture focused on delivering exceptional service and memorable shopping experiences
• Ensure customer concerns and escalations are resolved quickly and professionally
• Maintain best-in-class visual merchandising, presentation, and in-store brand standards
• Ensure the sales floor is fully staffed, organized, and operationally ready to support business needs

Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing leadership teams and associates
• Provide coaching, feedback, and ongoing development opportunities to Department Managers and store teams
• Conduct regular performance conversations, quarterly check-ins, and annual evaluations
• Build a positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment that promotes engagement and accountability
• Ensure staffing levels align with business needs and peak selling periods

Operations & Inventory Management

• Oversee all day-to-day store operations, including payroll, scheduling, reporting, inventory accuracy, and compliance
• Ensure timely completion of operational tasks, reporting requirements, and expense management
• Partner with Corporate Retail teams to resolve operational, inventory, maintenance, and personnel issues
• Manage physical inventory processes, cycle counts, transfers, damages, and stock movement activities
• Maintain compliance with company policies, procedures, and safety standards

Facilities & Vendor Partnership

• Serve as the primary contact for landlord and facility-related matters
• Partner with vendors and internal teams to address maintenance, repair, and operational needs
• Ensure the store environment remains safe, functional, and brand appropriate

Qualifications

• 5+ years of retail management experience leading high-volume, multi-department retail operations
• Experience in apparel, footwear, lifestyle, or specialty retail environments preferred
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop large teams
• Strong business acumen with experience managing sales performance, payroll, inventory, and operational KPIs
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize and adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic retail environment
• Proficiency with retail POS systems, inventory systems, and Microsoft Office applications
• High school diploma or equivalent required; college degree preferred
• Valid driver's license required

Schedule & Travel Requirements

• Full-time availability required, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and peak retail periods
• Occasional travel for meetings, training, events, or store support may be required

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to regularly bend, reach, and move throughout the store environment
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• Ability to maintain visual attention to detail in a retail environment

Reporting Structure

Direct Reports: Department Managers
Indirect Reports: Team Leads, Sales Associates, Stockroom Associates