The Director of Operations is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of our growing chocolate business while building the systems, processes, and team needed to support expansion. Reporting directly to the Owner, this role oversees retail operations, production coordination, inventory management, financial performance, and staff leadership across multiple locations. As we transition from a successful single-store business to a multi-location company, we are seeking an experienced operational leader who thrives in entrepreneurial environments, enjoys solving problems, and can create scalable processes without sacrificing the exceptional customer experience and product quality that define our brand. Key Responsibilities Operations Leadership Lead daily operations across retail and production to ensure efficiency, consistency, and profitability. Develop, document, and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all operational functions. Build systems that support expansion to additional locations. Monitor key operational metrics and implement continuous improvements. Team Leadership & Development Recruit, train, coach, and retain high-performing managers and team members. Create employee schedules that balance customer service with labor efficiency. Conduct performance reviews and establish accountability measures. Foster a positive, collaborative, and customer-focused culture. Financial & Business Performance Manage operating budgets and labor costs. Monitor sales, margins, payroll, and operating expenses. Analyze KPIs and provide recommendations to improve profitability. Partner with ownership on forecasting and strategic planning. Inventory & Supply Chain Oversee inventory planning, purchasing, receiving, and inventory accuracy. Manage vendor relationships and negotiate pricing where appropriate. Minimize waste while maintaining product availability. Ensure production and retail teams remain aligned on inventory needs. Customer Experience Ensure exceptional customer service standards are maintained across all locations. Resolve escalated customer concerns professionally. Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements. Multi-Location Growth Lead operational planning for the second location opening. Coordinate store setup, staffing, training, and launch readiness. Standardize operating procedures across locations. Build infrastructure that supports future expansion. Compliance & Quality Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and local health requirements. Maintain high standards for cleanliness, organization, and product quality. Ensure all operational policies are consistently followed. Qualifications 5+ years of progressive operations management experience. Experience managing multiple departments or retail locations. Experience in food manufacturing, specialty food, hospitality, retail, or consumer products preferred. Proven success developing operational systems and improving efficiencies. Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and KPIs. Excellent leadership, communication, and coaching skills. Highly organized with exceptional problem-solving abilities. Comfortable working in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment. Preferred Experience Multi-unit retail management. Food production or manufacturing operations. Inventory management systems. Staff development and organizational scaling. Opening new retail locations. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Success in this role will be measured by: Revenue growth and profitability Labor cost management Inventory accuracy and waste reduction Customer satisfaction Employee retention and engagement Successful second location launch SOP completion and implementation Operational efficiency improvements Compensation Competitive salary based on experience Performance-based bonus opportunity Paid time off Employee discount Professional development opportunities Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on. They enjoy building systems, developing people, and solving operational challenges. They are equally comfortable analyzing financial reports, coaching team members on the sales floor, improving inventory processes, and leading the successful opening of a new location. This individual will become a key partner to the Owner and play a critical role in transforming a successful local business into a scalable multi-location company.

Pay:

$57,959.56 - $74,800.76 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person