Assistant Operations Manager Jobs in Sydney, NS (NOW HIRING)

At Kent Building Supplies, we believe that strong, inclusive leadership drives success. We're looking for an Assistant Store Manager who is ready to take ownership of store operations, lead a diverse team, and deliver an exceptional customer experience in a dynamic, multibusiness retail environment.

Kent stores operate as several distinct yet interconnected businesses under one roof. In addition to our core home improvement retail operation, we serve Pro customers and deliver Install Sales solutions-each with unique customer needs, sales approaches, and operational requirements. As an Assistant Store Manager, you will play a key role in supporting how these business lines work together, ensuring alignment, consistency, and execution across the store.

This is a handson leadership role where you will oversee multiple departments, support crossdepartment execution, develop leaders, and help drive strong financial and operational results. Success in this role requires the ability to balance competing priorities, manage complexity, and lead teams across multiple revenue streams-while maintaining high standards for safety, customer experience, and associate engagement.

This position offers a competitive salary with eligibility for annual bonus incentives.

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees.  At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know-how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co-operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing

• 5+ years in retail management
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
• Exceptional customer service skills
• Comfort with technology and retail systems
• A growth mindset and commitment to continuous learning
• Flexibility to work a variable schedule based on retail business needs

What we Offer

• Wellness Program
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Employee Discounts
• Medical, Dental, Vision, RRSP Matching, and PTO benefits
• Growth and development opportunities through KENT and the greater J.D. Irving, Limited organization

As an Assistant Store Manager, you'll play a key role in the daytoday operations of the store, ensuring a seamless experience for customers and an engaging, wellled environment for associates. Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting crossdepartment execution: Partner with Department Managers to ensure consistent execution across Retail, Pro, and Install Sales operations.
• Leading the sales floor: Ensure departments are wellstocked, clean, and visually appealing to create a welcoming and productive shopping environment.
• Driving sales performance: Help implement strategies that support multiple revenue streams while meeting overall store sales and margin targets.
• Developing leaders and teams: Coach, train, and support Department Managers and associates, building bench strength and leadership capability across the store.
• Delivering exceptional customer experiences: Ensure a high standard of service for Retail, Pro, and Install customers by resolving concerns with empathy and efficiency.
• Managing inventory and shrink: Oversee inventory accuracy and loss prevention practices across departments.
• Maintaining safety and operational standards: Promote a safe, compliant, and wellorganized store environment.
• Collaborating with store leadership: Work closely with the Store Manager and leadership team to align priorities, communicate expectations, and drive accountability.
• Using retail systems effectively: Leverage tools such as Microsoft Office, Kronos, and D365 to support scheduling, reporting, and operational execution.