Malley's Chocolate

Description
Job Title: MIT (Manager in Training)
Company: Malley's Chocolates
Location: Cleveland, Ohio - Brookpark
Reports to: Location Manager and Retail Director
Position Overview: The Store Manager in Training (MIT) is a hands-on development role designed to prepare candidates for advancement into a Store Manager position within Malley's Chocolates. This role combines on-the-job training, leadership development, working in other locations with other store managers, and operational responsibilities to ensure success in managing a high-performing retail store. The MIT will learn all aspects of store operations while supporting the company's mission to deliver exceptional customer experiences and uphold Malley's tradition of quality.
Key Responsibilities
Training & Development
Participate in a training program focused on leadership, store operations, merchandising, and customer service.
Shadow experienced Store Manager(s) to learn best practices and gain exposure to day-to-day responsibilities.
Complete assigned training modules, leadership projects, and performance check-ins.
Meet regularly with training managers for feedback, coaching, and progress reviews.
Store Operations
Learn to oversee daily operations, including scheduling, inventory management, cash handling, and loss prevention.
Assist with opening and closing procedures.
Gain proficiency in point-of-sale systems, financial reporting, and corporate communication tools.
Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and safety standards.
Leadership & People Management
Support and practice leadership of store associates by providing direction, coaching, and performance feedback under the guidance of a Store Manager.
Participate in interviewing, onboarding, and training new team members.
Learn to recruit, interview, hire, and train new team members in alignment with Malley's values and customer-first philosophy.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging work environment for team members.
Assist in scheduling and workforce planning to balance customer service, labor efficiency, and employee satisfaction.
Sales & Customer Experience
Learn to set and achieve sales goals by analyzing business reports and identifying opportunities for growth.
Support merchandising standards, seasonal product transitions, and visual presentation.
Model and deliver exceptional customer service, ensuring every customer has a positive and memorable experience.
Support merchandising standards, product displays, and seasonal transitions to drive sales and brand consistency.
Learn to analyze sales trends and business reports to identify opportunities for growth and improved performance.
Assist in monitoring performance and motivating the team to meet or exceed targets.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in business, retail management, or related field preferred, but not required; equivalent retail management experience will be considered.
Travel to various retail locations within the region to gain expertise and knowledge from other store managers and locations.
1-3 years of supervisory or leadership experience in a retail or food service environment preferred.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to motivate a team.
Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and solve problems effectively.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by retail operations.
Passion for chocolate and commitment to delivering the Malley's customer experience.
Career Path
The Store Manager in Training program is designed as a steppingstone to a Store Manager role. Successful MITs will be considered for promotion to Store Manager positions across Malley's Chocolates locations. Future opportunities may include advancement into Multi-Unit Store Manager or Retail Leadership positions.
Benefits
Competitive starting wage with opportunities for advancement.
Health, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) with company match.
Employee discounts on Malley's Chocolates.
Paid time off and holiday pay.
Training and career development opportunities.