Merchandise Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Description

Job Summary:

The Regional Manager of Asian Cuisine Operations and Merchandising will strategize and supervise our franchise operations within the designated region, with a focus on Asian cuisine programs such as sushi, dumplings, pan-Asian dishes, and more. This role is pivotal in enhancing operational efficiency, driving regional financial growth, boosting performance, and nurturing the growth of our programs. The position demands a skilled professional experienced in regional management, coaching, strategic merchandising decisions, and analyzing Profit and Loss (P&L) statements.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

•  Recruit and train managers, aligning them with our company's vision and regional objectives.
•  Oversee the schedules and workflows of managers specializing in Asian cuisine, ensuring an efficient and productive regional work environment.
•  Conduct performance evaluations, providing targeted feedback to foster employee development.
•  Enforce company policies during disciplinary actions and termination procedures within the region.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

•  Collaborate with local retailers to align strategies and enhance program performance, coordinating with local merchandisers and retail leadership.
•  Implement and oversee Brand and Regulatory Compliance Audit Checklists, ensuring compliance within regional Asian cuisine franchises.
•  Formulate, initiate, and manage merchandising strategies within the region, driving customer engagement and sales growth.
•  Monitor and manage inventory of Asian cuisine items, maintaining optimal levels, and minimizing turnover and shrinkage.
•  Interpret audits and coach franchisees within the region to ensure compliance.
•  Actively engage in regional franchisee recruitment to attract potential franchise partners.
•  Supervise and support managers, providing development and guidance as necessary.
•  Manage regional Asian cuisine franchise operations, executing strategies for peak performance.
•  Set and enforce metrics, guidelines, and standards to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of regional Asian cuisine programs; continuously seek improvement opportunities.
•  Evaluate and refine Asian cuisine program procedures within the region to enhance efficiency.
•  Develop and enforce policies to streamline daily operations, increase customer satisfaction, and elevate the regional Asian cuisine experience.
•  Oversee regional budgets and cost of sales for all Asian cuisine operations, ensuring alignment with financial objectives.
•  Communicate new directives, policies, or procedures to managers, conducting regional staff meetings to discuss significant changes, address questions, and maintain morale.
•  Generate comprehensive monthly reports and cultivate strong relationships with managers, franchisees, and merchandisers within the region.
•  Address stakeholder inquiries promptly, offering effective solutions.
•  Conduct regular visits to regional stores to monitor adherence to company standards for Asian cuisine operations.
•  Assist in recruitment for stores, new store openings, and franchise transfers within the region.
•  Monitor Asian cuisine sales in the region, identifying continuous growth opportunities.
•  Develop and maintain fruitful relationships with regional Merchandisers.
•  Oversee the recruitment and onboarding of new managers and supervisors specializing in Asian cuisine within the region.

Qualifications:

• Technical Skills: Expertise in Asian cuisine operations, food preparation and presentation, and a comprehensive understanding of regional Asian cuisine lines, including sushi, dumplings, and pan-Asian dishes.
• Merchandising Skills: Proficiency in merchandising, product display strategies, understanding of customer behaviors and market trends within the region, and driving sales through effective merchandising.
•  Regulatory/Food Safety & Brand Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations and our Asian cuisine product line within the regional context.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Efficient operational problem-solving, and capacity to address and resolve critical operation's issues promptly within the region.
• Leadership Skills: Strong administrative, interpersonal, and mentorship skills, with a proven track record of managing multiple projects simultaneously within a regional setting.
•  Additional Skills: Strategic thinking capabilities, excellent communication skills, and a willingness to undertake challenging tasks beyond the role's primary responsibilities.

Education and Experience:

•  Bachelor's degree in business administration; preferred.
•  At least 8 years of experience in operations management, ideally within the food and beverage industry or franchise management at a regional level.
•  A minimum of 5 years of experience in managing and merchandising Asian cuisine, preferably in a regional franchise context.
•  Receive and maintain ServSafe Manager Certification.

Physical Requirements:

•  Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and work on a computer.
•  Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally.
•  Ability to travel frequently within the region to oversee franchise operations, implement merchandising strategies, and foster business partnerships.
•  Ability to Operate in confined spaces (kiosk). 

Equal Opportunity Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer, deeply valuing diversity. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, basing employment decisions on merit, qualifications, and regional business needs.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description isn't exhaustive. Duties and responsibilities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.