Experience-First Assistant Manager - Retail Leader

Build-A-Bear; Wauwatosa (WI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Build-A-Bear in Wisconsin is seeking an Assistant Manager for Mayfair Mall to support the Chief Workshop Manager in daily store operations, oversee staff, and drive guest‑centric service with strong leadership on the shop floor.

You will help recruit and develop the team, manage schedules, and ensure adherence to store policies while driving sales and excellent guest experiences. A proven background in specialty retail management is preferred and a high school diploma is required.

Qualifications

• 2 years of store management experience, with a proven, successful history in a customer‑centric business, preferably in specialty retail.
• High school diploma.
• Basic understanding in the use of common store technology solutions (POS, scheduling, HRIS, time and attendance)

Responsibilities

• Assist the Chief Workshop Manager in determining associates’ daily assignments and directing work for associates, including managing break schedules, completing assigned tasks and daily priorities, and serving as a role model leader.
• Assist the Chief Workshop Manager in hiring and promotion decisions, including providing feedback and making recommendations regarding applicant selection and staff advancement.
• Lead and inspire your team during scheduled shifts, enforcing and adhering to Build‑A‑Bear Workshop policies, procedures, and standards. Identify and communicate any possible violations to the CWM and/or DM immediately. Make recommendations on appropriate disciplinary actions and assist in delivering corrective actions to team members when violations occur.
• Drive sales as the Floor Leader, by coaching Bear Builders and creating a Guest experience that brings to life the Experience First culture throughout the workshop, effectively zoning associates, forecasting and adjusting sales based on business trends, and motivating the team to meet or exceed business targets.
• Ensure that all merchandising displays and layouts adhere to brand standards, creating an inviting and cohesive store environment.
• Exercise common sense and independent judgment in responding to and leading the team to maintain operational efficiencies and adherence to store safety policies and procedures and in resolving Guest issues.
• Oversee inventory management processes, including receiving, stocking, and inventory counts.
• Assist in building and developing a high‑performing team that consistently delivers an exceptional Guest experience.

Skills

Store management

Customer service

Leadership

Communication

Scheduling

Education

High school diploma

Associate's degree

Tools

POS

Scheduling

HRIS

Time and Attendance

Job description

Build-A-Bear in Wisconsin is seeking an Assistant Manager for Mayfair Mall to support the Chief Workshop Manager in daily store operations, oversee staff, and drive guest‑centric service with strong leadership on the shop floor.

You will help recruit and develop the team, manage schedules, and ensure adherence to store policies while driving sales and excellent guest experiences. A proven background in specialty retail management is preferred and a high school diploma is required.