Thrift Store Project Manager

Thrift Store Project Manager 3.3 3.3 out of 5 stars 3410 North Ridge Road East, Ashtabula, OH 44004 Hybrid work $22

• $25 an hour
• Temporary Ashtabula County Animal Protective League 3 reviews $22
• $25 an hour

•

Temporary Job Description Title:

Thrift Store Project Manager Term:

Temporary•

Launch & Transition Class:

Hourly Revised:

April 27, 2026

Reports To:

Executive Director

JOB OVERVIEW

The Thrift Store Project Manager is responsible for leading the launch and initial operation of a new high-quality, boutique-style thrift store that directly funds the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League (ACAPL). This is a temporary, high-impact role (4-6 months) focused on taking an already secured retail space from its current state to a fully operational, revenue-generating store. The position requires a combination of hands-on execution, project management, and independent problem-solving. Responsibilities include preparing the retail space, establishing systems and processes, sourcing high-quality donations, recruiting and coordinating volunteers and community support, overseeing merchandising and store presentation, hiring and training staff, implementing point-of-sales (POS) and operational systems, and supporting marketing and public launch efforts. This role will also oversee operations during the initial transition period, including supporting and guiding the Store Manager once hired. The ideal candidate is highly self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of building and executing a plan with minimal oversight. This is not a passive management role—this position requires ownership, urgency, and strong decision-making. The successful candidate will be expected to operate "in the field," actively engaging in and driving the work, not merely delegating it.

VISION:

To successfully launch a high-end thrift store that is clean, organized, visually appealing, and financially successful, while building a strong reputation for quality merchandise (donations), repeat customers, and community support. The store will serve as a sustainable revenue stream that directly funds the

ACAPL. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Launch & Store Setup Prepare the retail location for opening, including: Coordinating setup of fixtures, layout, and merchandising Establishing store flow, organization systems, and visual standards Coordinating donations of fixtures, materials, and professional services (e.g., painting, buildout support) Assisting with setup of utilities, POS system, and operational infrastructure Ensuring the store environment reflects a clean, high-quality, boutique-style retail experience Donations & Inventory Development This role requires strong judgment in maintaining a high standard of merchandise quality. This is not a traditional thrift environment. Only clean, desirable, and saleable items will be sold. Develop and implement a strategy for sourcing high-quality donated inventory Develop processes and procedures for handling donations that do not meet quality standards Build relationships with community members, businesses, and partners to secure desirable donations Establish and enforce clear standards for accepted items Oversee donation intake processes and ensure consistency in quality control Coordinate donation drop-off hours and be present as needed during early operations Staffing & Team Development Recruit, hire, and train initial store staff, including: Store Manager and Assistant Manager Cashiers Floor/Stocking Staff Donation Receiving/Sorting Staff Develop onboarding materials and operational expectations Provide initial oversight and support to Store Manager during transition period Operations & Process Development Create and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of store operations Establish pricing strategies, merchandising standards, and workflow processes Ensure efficient, organized, and scalable daily operations Step into daily operations as needed prior to or during Store Manager onboarding Marketing, Outreach & Public Relations Assist in development of branding, signage, and in-store messaging Support marketing efforts including social media, website coordination, and promotional campaigns Help generate community awareness and excitement leading up to and following launch Coordinate outreach efforts to encourage both shoppers and donors Support efforts to secure media coverage and public visibility Financial & Performance Focus Operate with a strong focus on revenue generation and sustainability Support achievement of store financial goals, including year-one revenue targets Ensure pricing, inventory selection, and presentation align with a high-performing retail model Compliance & Administrative Setup Assist with any required administrative setup related to operating under the organization's nonprofit structure Maintain organized documentation and operational records Additional Responsibilities Recruit and coordinate volunteers and community service support for store setup and operations Maintain a clean, organized, and professional retail environment at all times Perform other duties as assigned to support successful store launch and operation

EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent required Experience in retail, project management, operations, or business startup strongly preferred Experience launching or managing a retail space is a plus but not required Strong organizational, problem-solving, and execution skills Ability to work independently and take ownership of a project from start to finish Strong decision-making skills and ability to prioritize effectively Strong communication and leadership skills Ability to recruit, train, and manage staff and volunteers Basic computer skills required; ability to manage scheduling, communication, and setup tasks remotely Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand for extended periods, and perform physical setup tasks Availability to work weekends and flexible hours as needed during launch period

WORKING CONDITIONS

Schedule:

Full-time (approximately 40 hours/week), flexible based on project needs

Environment:

Combination of on-site retail setup and remote administrative work

Physical:

Frequent standing, walking, lifting, and hands-on setup work

Operational:

Fast-paced startup environment requiring adaptability and initiative

COMPENSATION

$22.00

• 25.

00 per hour Temporary position (4-6 months)

AT WILL EMPLOYMENT

Employment with Ashtabula County APL is at-will, meaning that employment is for no specified period and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause. Ashtabula County APL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other legally protected basis. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications.

NOTE:

This position description is not exhaustive. You may be required to perform other related duties within your skill set as negotiated and/or directed to meet the evolving needs of the department and the organization.

Pay:

$22.00

• $25.

00 per hour

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Ashtabula, OH 44004