Retail Operations Manager

Retail Operations Manager

Squishable is a close-knit team of designers, artists, pop-culture fanatics, and lovers of all things adorable. Together we create the cutest, cuddliest (and sometimes downright unusual) plush and lifestyle products in the world. With the millions-strong Squishable fan community cheering us on (and a lot of cupcakes, coffee, and karaoke) we make people say "a" Our offices are in a sunny loft in NYC's Flatiron District and in downtown Washington, DC.

The Retail Operations Manager is responsible for developing and executing the operational strategy for Squishable's retail fleet, ensuring stores have the processes, systems, tools, and support needed to deliver exceptional customer experiences and strong business performance.

Reporting to the Director of Retail, this role serves as a strategic business partner, working closely with the Director of Retail and Regional Managers to drive operational excellence, improve store performance, and execute key business initiatives across all locations. Together, they will identify opportunities to improve efficiency, enhance the customer and employee experience, strengthen operational execution, and support the company's continued growth.

The Retail Operations Manager provides leadership across store operations, new store openings, facilities, operational systems, vendor management, and cross-functional initiatives. This individual will build scalable processes, lead operational projects from concept through execution, and help shape the future of Squishable's growing retail business.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Director of Retail and Regional Managers to execute the operational strategy for Squishable's retail fleet, driving consistency, efficiency, and store performance across all locations
• Analyze operational metrics, labor, sales, and key performance indicators to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and support data-driven business decisions
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve operational standards, policies, procedures, and training that support operational excellence and an exceptional customer experience
• Serve as the primary operational partner to Retail Leadership, providing guidance and support to Regional Managers and Store Managers while ensuring successful execution of company initiatives
• Lead the operational execution of new store openings, relocations, remodels, pop-up locations, and store closures, including project planning, vendor coordination, fixture procurement, and store readiness
• Oversee facilities management, preventative maintenance programs, vendor relationships, and operational budgets while identifying opportunities to improve service levels and reduce costs
• Partner with Inventory Planning, Warehousing, Finance, IT, and other cross-functional teams to improve operational workflows, inventory accuracy, and store systems
• Manage store operational resources, including the Store Operations Manual, operational communications, calendars, and tools that support consistent execution across the retail fleet
• Evaluate and implement operational processes, systems, and technologies that improve efficiency, scalability, and business performance
• Lead cross-functional projects, build strong partnerships across departments, and provide operational reporting and recommendations that support strategic planning and company growth

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive retail operations leadership experience within a multi-unit retail environment
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, Operations Management or a related field required
• Proven success developing operational strategies, improving processes, and driving measurable business results
• Experience leading new store openings, remodels, relocations, and other large-scale retail projects
• Strong financial acumen, including experience analyzing labor, operational metrics, budgets, and cost-saving opportunities
• Demonstrated success managing multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with the ability to translate data into actionable business recommendations
• Outstanding written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills with experience presenting to senior leadership
• Proven ability to build strong cross-functional partnerships and influence without direct authority
• Experience with ERP systems such as NetSuite and strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, and reporting tools
• Experience supporting a rapidly growing retail organization is strongly preferred

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb ladders, and move throughout retail environments for extended periods
• Ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds
• Ability to travel by air and automobile on a regular basis

Salary Range: $65,000 - $80,000 annually, depending on experience.

Location: Candidates must be based in either our New York City or Washington, DC corporate office.

Travel: Requires 30% - 40% travel

Benefits & Perks:

• 100% employer-paid health insurance
• 100% employer-paid short- and long-term disability insurance
• 100% employer-paid life insurance
• Affordable vision and dental insurance
• 18 days of PTO per year, plus 2 floating holidays
• 401(k) with employer match
• Generous employee discount (hello, giant plush!)