Assistant Store Manager

Rackets & Runners is a **family-run, independent sporting goods retailer** based in Vancouver, Canada, specializing in gear, apparel, and expert services for running, tennis, pickleball, and squash. Overview - **Mission**: To provide exceptional service and quality products, aspiring to be a community hub that encourages sport and fitness for all ages and abilities, while minimizing barriers to fitness. - **History**: Founded in 1978 in Vancouver, the store was eventually purchased in 1998 by Vanda Borean, an admirer of the store since her youth, who now runs it with her family. - **Business Model**: Operates both online and through its physical store, combining the dependability of a large retailer with the personalized feel of a small, family-owned business. Products and ServicesRackets & Runners offers a wide selection of products and specialized services: - **Footwear & Apparel**: A large selection of running shoes (including fitting services and a variety of widths), court shoes, and athletic apparel. - **Equipment**: Rackets and paddles for tennis, pickleball, and squash. - **Expert Services**: Includes professional racket and paddle stringing, repairs, and a racket/paddle demo program allowing customers to test gear before buying. - **Community Initiatives**: The store organizes a run club and community programs like its "Shoe Renu Program," which distributes customer-donated shoes to individuals in need. **Overview** **Responsibilities** - Assist the Store Manager in overseeing daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures - Lead and supervise sales associates to meet sales goals and deliver exceptional customer service - Manage merchandising efforts, including pricing, product placement, and inventory replenishment - Handle POS transactions, cash handling, and bookkeeping with accuracy and integrity - Recruit, train, and develop team members to ensure high performance and professional growth - Implement marketing strategies to increase store traffic and sales - Monitor store budget, manage purchasing activities, and control expenses effectively - Conduct performance evaluations, provide coaching, and support staff development initiatives - Ensure compliance with company policies, health & safety standards, and operational procedures - Utilize strong negotiation skills with vendors for purchasing and promotional opportunities **Requirements**: - Proven experience in retail sales, store management, or supervisory roles within a retail environment - Strong leadership skills with demonstrated team management capabilities - Excellent communication skills; bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus - Proficiency in POS systems, cash handling, bookkeeping, and merchandising techniques - Ability to manage time effectively in a fast-paced setting; strong organizational skills required - Experience in recruiting, training & development, budgeting, and marketing strategies - Exceptional interpersonal skills with a focus on customer service excellence - Knowledge of pricing strategies, sales management, and store operations best practices - Administrative experience including payroll processing, inventory control, and recordkeeping - High level of professionalism with strong math skills and phone etiquette - Ability to work flexible hours as needed to support store hours of operation This role is ideal for motivated individuals seeking growth opportunities within retail management. The Assistant Store Manager will be instrumental in driving the success of the store while fostering a positive environment for staff and customers alike. **Job Types**: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent Pay: $23.00-$25.00 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week **Benefits**: - Casual dress - Dental care - Employee stock purchase plan - Mileage reimbursement - Paid time off - Stock options Work Location: Hybrid remote in Vancouver, BC V6H 2M5