Department Manager, Grocery

The Department Manager, Grocery is accountable for the successful day-to-day operation of the Grocery department. This includes implementation of company standards, the management of company assets, attention to maintaining a local competitive position, and the development and training of staff. The incumbent supports the rest of the store management team and fosters positive customer relationships.

More than just a retail. Come make a difference

The Northern/NorthMart stores currently have exciting opportunities for full-time, permanent employment in retail stores across the North. This is an excellent opportunity to join a team where your experience and work ethic are appreciated and rewarded. With Northern/NorthMart, you're encouraged to learn and grow on the job and to explore the beauty and the culture of the communities in which we live and work.

Are you a couple? Friends, siblings or just two colleagues that get along really well? We are looking for enthusiastic and highly motivated retail professionals who welcome the opportunities for career advancement that we have to offer. If you are customer service leaders with a passion for being part of a hardworking retail team.

• Competitive salaries
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Allowances for both food and accommodation
• Paid training

• Focus on customer service as a top priority by creating strong customer relationships and providing excellent customer service
• Deal with customer complaints and requests quickly and effectively
• Address and respond to all customer inquiries
• Schedule department staff to maximize customer service and fulfill business needs
• Ensure an enjoyable shopping experience for customers

• Ensure that the Grocery Department is ready for business, stocked and maintained throughout the day
• Develop departmental business plans in order to meet or exceed sales and gross profit goals
• Protect company assets: maintain and control inventories
• Monitor gross profit, investigate and address variances and communicate to Category Manager
• Oversee the correct cost of all invoices and communicate variances to Category Manager
• Complete Business Segment inventories as required
• Complete regular competitor price checks to protect competitive position
• Provide regular input to Procurement and Marketing Team on sales trends and new or requested items
• Monitor inventory levels and shrink reduction; rotate stock to guarantee freshness

• Fully support and participate in all advertising campaigns and P.O.P strategies as directed through Procurement and Marketing
• Ensure operating goals are met by monitoring performance, following merchandising practices, supporting promotions, maintaining operational standards and controls. Take remedial actions as described in Retail Basics
• Ensure product quality through correct ordering, receiving, inspection, handling, labeling, pricing and stock rotation
• Follow merchandise guidelines for all food resets
• Maintain equipment and fixtures as directed by the manufacturer and Facility Maintenance
• Maintain 52 week files and records

• Ensure that staff provide outstanding customer service
• Participate as a key member of the store team, providing leadership to store team and support to the Store Manager
• Work with supervisors to recruit, train, lead and develop Grocery Department employees
• Through ongoing communication keep staff current with key activities
• Supervise, coach, develop, and evaluate Grocery Department employees as required

• A minimum of two years of experience in a high-volume grocery/retail environment
• Strong customer service skills.
• Record of bottom line and sales results in previous roles.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions both verbally and orally.
• Computer knowledge of Excel and Outlook.
• Strong knowledge of grocery operating principles.
• Exceptional analytical, problem solving and decision making skills with a high attention to detail
• Proven organizational, planning and prioritizing skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal skills and superior customer service skills
• Must have the ability and desire to develop an in-depth understanding of Northern/NorthMart customers
• Demonstrates a personal and enthusiastic commitment to Northern/NorthMart's vision, mission, values and strategies
• Highly motivated and adventurous with an appreciation for small town life in a culturally diverse setting considered an asset

• Work in extreme conditions
• Lift 50+ pounds
• Work extended hours
• Will be required to stand for long periods occasionally.
• Use full hand mechanics
• Handle or feel and reach with hands and arms
• Work in remote areas

The North West Company is proud to serve and support communities in Northern Canada, Western Canada, rural Alaska, the South Pacific islands, and the Caribbean. Our stores offer a broad range of products and services with an emphasis on food, and our goal is to be the best local shopping choice for everyday household and local lifestyle needs.