Vice President of Operations

Overview

The Vice President of Operations (or Chief Operating Officer) is a key member of the executive leadership team responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring profitable growth, and delivering an exceptional customer experience across all grocery store locations. This role oversees day-to-day operations, supply chain, merchandising, compliance, and employee performance, while also leading strategic initiatives to strengthen the company’s competitive position.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Partner with the CEO and executive team to define and execute the company’s long-term vision and growth strategy.

Develop and implement operational strategies that align with company objectives, customer needs, and market trends.

Identify opportunities for store expansion, efficiency improvements, and innovation in the grocery retail space.

Operational Management

Oversee daily store operations across multiple locations, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and compliance with company standards.

Manage supply chain, logistics, and distribution to optimize product availability and freshness while minimizing waste.

Ensure merchandising strategies are effectively executed to drive sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to sales, labor, shrink, safety, and service.

Financial Accountability

Develop and manage budgets, financial forecasts, and operational goals.

Drive profitability through cost controls, productivity initiatives, and process improvements.

Collaborate with the finance team on analysis of operating results and investment decisions.

People & Culture

Lead, mentor, and develop store and operations leadership teams to build high-performance culture.

Champion employee engagement, diversity, and professional development initiatives.

Ensure compliance with labor regulations, health & safety standards, and company policies.

Customer Experience

Promote a culture of customer service excellence across all locations.

Implement initiatives to improve store experience, product offerings, and loyalty programs.

Respond proactively to customer feedback and evolving shopping behaviors (e.g., e-commerce, delivery, curbside pickup).

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, Supply Chain, or related field (MBA preferred).

10+ years of progressive leadership experience in retail operations, with significant experience in grocery, food, or consumer goods.

Proven track record of managing multi-unit operations and achieving revenue growth and cost efficiencies.

Strong financial acumen, analytical skills, and P&L management experience.

Exceptional leadership, communication, and change management skills.

Knowledge of grocery retail trends, technology, and customer experience best practices.

Competencies

Strategic thinker with strong execution ability.

Results-driven and data-informed decision maker.

Inspirational leader and team builder.

Adaptable and innovative in a fast-changing retail environment.

Customer-first mindset.