Department Manager LBM/Kitchen/Bath/Flooring/Paint/Household/Décor

Kent Building Supplies; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellness Program

Employee and Family Assistance Plan

Employee Discounts

Medical Benefits

Dental Benefits

Vision Benefits

RRSP Matching

PTO

Job summary

Kent Building Supplies in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, is seeking a Department Manager to lead a high‑performing team in a dynamic retail environment. You will set the standard for safety, customer service, and visual merchandising while driving sales and ensuring customers have a standout experience.

You will coach staff, manage shifting priorities, and work with the Assistant Manager on store initiatives, with opportunities for career growth within the Kent organization.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast-paced retail setting.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage shifting priorities.
• Demonstrates a passion for customer service and a commitment to achieving sales goals.
• Previous experience in retail sales and team supervision is preferred.
• Product knowledge within the department is considered an asset.
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• CSA-approved steel-toed footwear is required while on shift.
• Career progression opportunities include advancement to Assistant Manager roles.

Responsibilities

• Lead the department by setting the example in safety, customer service, and visual merchandising standards.
• Drive sales by actively engaging with customers, analyzing performance metrics, and implementing action plans to meet targets.
• Communicate priorities clearly to associates and ensure they have the tools, training, and support needed to succeed.
• Coach and develop team members through regular feedback, performance conversations, and identifying growth opportunities.
• Resolve associate and customer concerns professionally, promoting a respectful and inclusive store culture.
• Partner with the Assistant Manager to support store-wide initiatives, uphold operational standards, and contribute to a positive team environment.

Skills

Team leadership

Organization & Problem-Solving

Customer Service

Retail Experience

Product Knowledge

Lifting up to 55 lbs

Safety Footwear

Career Growth

Job description

Job Description

Department Managers

Department Managers play a key leadership role in driving sales performance and operational excellence within their assigned area. They are responsible for leading a team of associates, executing strategic merchandising plans, managing inventory, and ensuring an exceptional customer experience. This role combines hands‑on retail expertise with people leadership to foster a high‑performing, customer‑focused environment. Department Managers are also responsible for maximizing profitability and protecting company assets through inventory control, loss prevention, operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the department by setting the example in safety, customer service, and visual merchandising standards.
• Drive sales by actively engaging with customers, analyzing performance metrics, and implementing action plans to meet targets.
• Communicate priorities clearly to associates and ensure they have the tools, training, and support needed to succeed.
• Coach and develop team members through regular feedback, performance conversations, and identifying growth opportunities.
• Resolve associate and customer concerns professionally, promoting a respectful and inclusive store culture.
• Partner with the Assistant Manager to support store‑wide initiatives, uphold operational standards, and contribute to a positive team environment.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team in a fast‑paced retail setting.
• Strong organizational and problem‑solving skills with the ability to manage shifting priorities.
• Demonstrates a passion for customer service and a commitment to achieving sales goals.
• Previous experience in retail sales and team supervision is preferred.
• Product knowledge within the department is considered an asset.
• Ability to lift up to 55 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• CSA-approved steel‑toed footwear is required while on shift.
• Career progression opportunities include advancement to Assistant Manager roles.

What we Offer

• Wellness Program
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Employee Discounts
• Medical, Dental, Vision, RRSP Matching, and PTO benefits
• Growth and development opportunities through KENT and the greater J.D. Irving, Limited organization

About The Team

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know‑how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co‑operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing