Retail Operations Manager

Sweet Action Ice Cream is a Denver craft ice cream company known for inventive flavors, high-quality ingredients, and a strong neighborhood following. Our production facility supports our scoop shops, catering program, and growing wholesale business.We re looking for a Retail Operations Manager to own performance across all retail locations. This role is responsible for driving sales, controlling costs, building strong teams, and ensuring consistent, high-level execution.We re a small, collaborative company looking for someone who wants to take pride in helping build a thriving local business. This is a hands-on, high-accountability role. If a store is underperforming, it is your responsibility to quickly identify the issues, develop a plan to fix and coordinate with leadership. This role requires someone highly dependable, thoughtful, and capable of making sound decisions independently.Core ResponsibilitiesMulti-Unit PerformanceDrive sales and profitability; control cost of goods and labor across all locationsTrack and manage KPIs daily, weekly, and monthlyIdentify performance gaps and implement corrective actionsStore Manager LeadershipDirectly manage and develop Store ManagersSet clear expectations and hold managers to measurable results Conduct regular store audits and performance reviewsAddress performance issues quickly and directlyStaffing & Labor ControlOwn labor performance across all storesEnsure scheduling discipline schedules align with sales patterns and labor targetsManage coverage gaps, call-outs, and cross-store staffingTeam DevelopmentBuild and maintain a strong bench of Store ManagersSet hiring criteria to ensure stores are staffed with high-performing team membersCoach managers on consistent hiring, training, and retention practicesDevelop internal talent for promotionOperational ExcellenceEnforce consistency in product quality, service standards, and store executionMaintain clean, organized, and efficient storesIdentify operational breakdowns and implement scalable solutionsInventory and Cost ControlOversee inventory practices, ordering, and purchasing disciplineEnforce portion control and waste managementMonitor and improve store-level cost controlsFood Safety & ComplianceEnsure strict adherence to all food safety and sanitation standardsHold Store Managers accountable for logs, audits, and complianceAddress any gaps or risks immediatelyCommunication & ImplementationAct as the operational link between ownership and store teamsExecute company initiatives, menu changes, and process improvementsCommunicate expectations clearly and ensure consistent executionHands-On LeadershipMaintain a regular in-store presence across all locationsStep into operations as needed during staffing shortages or low-volume periods to maintain labor targetsLead by example set the standard for urgency, accountability, and executionQualificationsWe re looking for someone who:Has multi-unit or senior store management experience in retail, hospitality, or food serviceHas a proven track record of driving measurable performance improvementsIs a strong operator: data-driven and comfortable working in-storeCan make decisions quickly and confidently in fast-paced environmentsIs an excellent communicator who can coach, correct, and motivateIs able to prioritize, exercise good judgment, and execute consistently Is organized and disciplined Thrives in a high-ownership role with minimal oversightRequirements:21+ years old (liquor handling requirements)Valid driver s license and reliable transportationOpen availability including evenings, weekends, and holidaysCompensation & Benefits$60K - $70K annually (base salary + monthly performance bonus), depending on experience2 Weeks Paid Time OffHealth Insurance Available after 3 Months401k Available after 1 YearIce cream and perksOpportunity to grow with a fast-growing local company