Retail Store Manager

About the Company

Our client is a family-owned workwear, safety footwear, and protective equipment retailer with a heritage spanning over 70 years. The company is the leading workwear brand in Europe and operates across nearly 30 countries. They are now establishing their presence in the United States, with a growing retail footprint and a brand new US headquarters opening in Columbus, Ohio.

The Opportunity

This is a newly created role: the first fully owned US retail store manager for our client, based in their brand new Columbus headquarters. You will own the retail floor and the look of the store, build relationships with business customers, handle customer service for online and in-store orders, and lead two part-time sales associates.

Retail Operations

Own the day-to-day operation, appearance, and customer experience of the Columbus retail store. Welcome customers, build product knowledge, and help them find the right gear for their work. Process purchases, returns, and exchanges, and keep signage and the stockroom in shape. Handle opening and closing procedures, including cash handling and basic security routines. Lead and support part-time sales associates who report to you. Keep the store running on trade show weekends while sales associates travel with the trade show manager.

Visual Merchandising

Own the visual presentation of the store, including window displays, floor layouts, and product placement. Judge whether each display and setup aligns with the company's brand identity, and adjust it when it doesn't. Refresh displays as new products arrive and seasons change. Work with the Head of Wholesale & Retail on merchandising direction for the store.

Customer Service

Build and maintain relationships with business, wholesale, and B2B customers who visit the store as a showroom. Answer customer phone and email inquiries about orders, products, and availability, including B2B accounts. Manage returns, exchanges, and related tickets through the company's e-commerce systems.

What We're Looking For

Experience in retail, hospitality, or customer-facing work; visual merchandising experience is strongly preferred. Around three or more years of relevant experience is preferred. A strong eye for presentation: at a minimum, you can tell whether a window or a setup is right for the store. Someone who is energized by working directly with customers and takes real ownership of a physical space, rather than waiting to be told what to do. Organized, detail-oriented, and trustworthy with cash, company property, and sensitive information. A clear communicator who works well with colleagues and leadership across multiple locations. Willing to work onsite in Columbus full-time, including weekends.

Compensation & Location

Compensation: $55,000 to $70,000 base, depending on experience. Location: Columbus, Ohio (Arena District). On-site, full-time. Schedule: Set around store opening hours, including weekends; some flexibility for store needs. Reports to: Head of Wholesale & Retail.