Independent Operator - Store Manager

Grocery Outlet; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Grocery Outlet is seeking an Independent Operator in Spokane, WA, to manage a store with a focus on community engagement and operational excellence. Candidates should have at least 4 years of retail management experience, an entrepreneurial mindset, and passion for customer service. This unique opportunity offers income based on sales performance, flexible scheduling, and corporate support. Ideal for leaders eager to take charge and foster a positive shopping experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years’ retail store management or multi‑unit restaurant management experience.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for retail and customer service.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to build and develop a team.
• Business acumen, including financial and operational management experience.
• Willingness to relocate and commit to the full training and onboarding process.
• A drive for success and the ability to work independently while leveraging the support of the Grocery Outlet network.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily store functions, including inventory management and compliance.
• Recruit, hire, and train a high‑performing team for customer service.
• Order products to meet the preferences of the local community.
• Support local organizations and causes aligned with Grocery Outlet’s mission.
• Manage financial performance, including sales and margins.
• Create an inviting shopping experience by maintaining a clean store.
• Run your store the way you think is best for your community.
• Enjoy uncapped earning potential based on store sales.
• Control your schedule with flexible working hours.
• Receive support from training and marketing professionals.

Skills

Retail store management

Leadership skills

Business acumen

Customer service

Job description

The Independent Operator Role

The Independent Operator (IO) is a hands‑on, entrepreneurial role where individuals take ownership of their Grocery Outlet store. This is a unique business opportunity, not a franchise, giving operators the autonomy to run their business while benefiting from the support and resources of an established retail brand.

Key Responsibilities

• Store Operations: Oversee daily store functions, including inventory management, compliance, and financial oversight to ensure profitability and growth.
• Leadership & Team Development: Recruit, hire, and train a high‑performing team to deliver outstanding customer service and operational excellence.
• Buying & Merchandising: Leveraging Grocery Outlet’s unique buying model. Order the variety and quantity of products to meet the unique preferences of your local community.
• Community Engagement: Support local organizations and causes you are passionate about, aligning with our mission of "Touching lives for the better".
• Financial & Business Acumen: Manage financial performance, including sales, margins, expenses, and overall profitability.
• Customer Experience: Create an inviting shopping experience by maintaining a clean, organized, and well‑stocked store.
• Operational Autonomy: Run your store the way you think is best for your community, employees, and business.
• Uncapped Earning Potential: There is no limit to what you can earn; the more your store sells, the higher your commission payment will be.
• Control Your Schedule: While a full‑time commitment is required, you have the flexibility to choose your working hours and manage your own schedule.
• Corporate Support: Receive training, mentorship, and support from marketing, finance, and business professionals to assist with any questions or issues that arise.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years’ retail store management or multi‑unit restaurant management experience.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for retail and customer service.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to build and develop a team.
• Business acumen, including financial and operational management experience.
• Willingness to relocate and commit to the full training and onboarding process.
• A drive for success and the ability to work independently while leveraging the support of the Grocery Outlet network.

This is not the right opportunity for you if you…

• Are looking for a passive investment or absentee ownership.
• Are interested in selling property or real estate to Grocery Outlet.
• Are expecting Grocery Outlet to build a store in a specific location at your request.