Assistant Store Manager - Ace Hardware

Company Overview We are your local hardware store and a proud part of your community. As part of the Ace Hardware family-with over 5,000 stores globally, mostly independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs-we combine the resources of a trusted national brand with the personal touch of a neighborhood business. While others have become large and impersonal, at Ace, we stay small, local, and personal. A visit to Ace feels like a visit to a neighbor.

Position Summary We are seeking a proactive and reliable Retail Assistant Manager to support daily store operations, lead floor staff, and drive exceptional customer experiences. Working closely with the Store Manager, you will help oversee visual merchandising, inventory management, sales goals, and team training to ensure our neighborhood hardware store runs seamlessly.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Support & Administration

• Partner with the Store Manager to achieve or exceed sales plans and target metrics.

• Maintain accurate daily logs, including sales records, deposit logs, damage reports, schedules, and new hire paperwork.

• Oversee store security protocols, including opening/closing procedures, setting alarms, and securing safes.

• Enforce company policies, safety standards, and operational procedures, escalating concerns to senior management when necessary.

Merchandising & Inventory Control

• Execute company visual presentation standards, creating eye-catching promotional displays and organized merchandise setups.

• Manage inventory controls, facilitating stock counts, bulk shipments, and inventory adjustments as directed.

• Keep the sales floor clean, fully stocked, and visually appealing to customers.

Team Leadership & Customer Service

• Train and coach floor staff on product knowledge, selling techniques, and customer service standards.

• Model outstanding customer service, assisting shoppers with product selections and resolving inquiries.

• Lead by example on the sales floor to motivate the team and foster a high-energy environment.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Previous retail supervisory or leadership experience preferred (hardware/home improvement experience is a plus).

• Technical & Analytical: Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and comfortable using POS systems to analyze basic sales reports.

• Customer Focus: Exceptional interpersonal, verbal communication, and sales skills.

• Physical Requirements: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and comfortably lift heavy merchandise (up to 50 lbs).

• Detail-Oriented: Strong organizational habits with an eye for clean displays, accurate record-keeping, and store security.