Independent Operator - Store Manager

Grocery Outlet Inc.; Yakima (WA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Grocery Outlet invites driven individuals to take ownership of a store as an Independent Operator. This role combines hands-on store management with entrepreneurial autonomy, supported by the Grocery Outlet network.

You’ll oversee operations, lead a team, and drive community-focused merchandising and customer experience. Success hinges on strong leadership, financial acumen, and the ability to work independently while leveraging corporate support.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years’ retail store management or multi-unit restaurant management experience.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for retail and customer service.
• Strong leadership and the ability to build and develop a team.
• Business and financial acumen including budgeting and profit awareness.
• Willingness to relocate and commit to training and onboarding.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily store operations, inventory, compliance, and profitability.
• Recruit, hire and train a high‑performing team.
• Buying and merchandising to meet local community needs.
• Engage with community and local organizations to align with company mission.
• Manage financial performance including sales, margins and expenses.

Skills

Retail mgmt experience

Entrepreneurial mindset

Leadership

Customer service

Financial awareness

Job description

Grocery Outlet is a rapidly growing, family-oriented retailer dedicated to providing customers with high-quality, deeply discounted products. With commitment to our communities and a strong network of independent operators, we offer a unique business model that empowers entrepreneurs to run their own stores. Our mission is to deliver exceptional value to customers while fostering a culture of independence, integrity, and community impact.

Founded in 1946, Grocery Outlet has a rich history of providing exceptional bargains to customers while supporting local entrepreneurs. Over the decades, we have expanded to more than 500 locations across the United States, maintaining our reputation as the leading extreme-value grocery retailer. Our continued growth and success are driven by our commitment to innovation, strong supplier relationships, and our independent operator model, which has helped countless business owners achieve financial and personal success.

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.

If you're ready to take control of your future and own your success, the Grocery Outlet Independent Operator opportunity could be the perfect fit for you!

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