Operations Manager

Kentucky Soaps and Such

Position Summary

The Operations Manager oversees day-to-day store and production operations while leading the hands-on product-making process to ensure it reflects Plainview's craftsmanship and quality standards. This role also serves as a face of the brand, hosting tours and sharing the Plainview story, and requires a detail-oriented leader who can balance operational efficiency with genuine care for craft.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all store operations and daily processes, ensuring inventory integrity and a seamless fulfillment process.
• Manage staffing, scheduling, and overall store workflow.
• Partner with the Retail Sales Manager on employee evaluation and development.
• Oversee payroll management.
• Maintain strong daily knowledge of the business through regular reporting, and review key information with the Retail Sales Manager to keep Leadership informed.
• Manage buyer and vendor relationships for raw materials, packaging, equipment, and manufacturing supplies.
• Monitor production efficiency and quality, driving continuous process improvements.
• Lead the Plainview product-making process, batching, curing, and finishing, ensuring it reflects the care, craftsmanship, and small-batch quality that define the brand.
• Source and steward high-quality, natural ingredients, balancing efficiency with the intentional, sometimes slower processes that protect product integrity.
• Host and lead tours of the soap-making process for customers and groups.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 3–5+ years of experience in operations management, ideally within retail, manufacturing, or a small-batch/artisan production environment.
• Demonstrated experience managing staff, including scheduling, performance evaluation, and development.
• Experience with vendor and supplier management, including sourcing and negotiating for raw materials or supplies.
• Strong understanding of inventory management and fulfillment operations.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams and shifting priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with standard business software (e.g., Microsoft Office/Google Workspace); experience with POS or inventory systems a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.