Retail Operating Partner - West Lafayette, IN

Fleet Feet Sports; West Lafayette (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) with company match

Employee discounts

Training & development

Community engagement

Job summary

Fleet Feet is seeking an Operating Partner in West Lafayette, IN to lead the retail store’s strategic and operational success. You’ll build a high-performing team, foster customer loyalty, and strengthen community ties through local engagement.

You’ll drive financial performance and service excellence while leveraging Fleet Feet resources to educate customers, manage budgets, and grow the business. The role is hands-on, requires flexibility for nights and weekends, and centers on a people-first

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a retail leadership role, with a strong foundation in sales and operational management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Team: Recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing and engaged team.
• Coach for Growth: Mentor employees using performance metrics, reviews, and on-the-job training to unlock potential and drive results.
• Deliver World-Class Service: Champion a customer experience focused on education, proper fit, and long-term loyalty.
• Drive the Business: Set and achieve financial goals by analyzing data, managing budgets, and optimizing store operations.
• Elevate the Brand: Execute marketing, outreach, and local engagement efforts to increase awareness and traffic.
• Be a Community Leader: Build relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and fitness organizations to strengthen the running and walking culture.
• Think Like an Entrepreneur: Identify and act on opportunities to improve service and generate revenue.
• Execute Operations: Oversee inventory processes, staff scheduling, and daily store functionality to ensure smooth operations.
• Resolve Issues Thoughtfully: Address customer and team concerns promptly and professionally.
• Foster Culture: Create an inclusive, accountable, and energized environment that values teamwork and continuous improvement.

Skills

Retail leadership

Budget oversight

Team building

Strategic planning

Sales management

Job description

Our Company

We believeRunning Changes Everything. If you believe that, too, we want to talk. With more than 280 stores and a robust e-commerce site, Fleet Feet is the largest running retailer in the country. Catering to more than runners, we pride ourselves on having an inclusive environment! We believe it’s a privilege to serve and to deliver unmatched service and support when outfitting every customer. We run together to solve problems, reach goals, encourage others and champion our brand.

Overview:

As the top leader in your Fleet Feet company-owned store, the Operating Partner is responsible for the strategic and operational success of the retail location in West Lafayette, IN. You’ll lead with purpose, develop a high-performing team, and foster meaningful relationships with customers and the community. This role blends entrepreneurial thinking, operational excellence, and authentic leadership to drive growth and customer loyalty. You'll be the face of Fleet Feet in your community and have access to a robust suite of resources to help you succeed.

At Fleet Feet, we believe in putting people first, serving with integrity, and inspiring movement in our communities. If you’re passionate about leading teams, connecting with people, and growing a business that makes a real difference, this is the role for you.

If you’re a visionary leader ready to take ownership, grow a team, and build a business rooted in purpose, we want to hear from you. and help us inspire the runner in everyone.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the Team: Recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing and engaged team.
• Coach for Growth: Mentor employees using performance metrics, reviews, and on-the-job training to unlock potential and drive results.
• Deliver World-Class Service: Champion a customer experience focused on education, proper fit, and long-term loyalty.
• Drive the Business: Set and achieve financial goals by analyzing data, managing budgets, and optimizing store operations.
• Elevate the Brand: Execute marketing, outreach, and local engagement efforts to increase awareness and traffic.
• Be a Community Leader: Build relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and fitness organizations to strengthen the running and walking culture.
• Think Like an Entrepreneur: Identify and act on opportunities to improve service and generate revenue.
• Execute Operations: Oversee inventory processes, staff scheduling, and daily store functionality to ensure smooth operations.
• Resolve Issues Thoughtfully: Address customer and team concerns promptly and professionally.
• Foster Culture: Create an inclusive, accountable, and energized environment that values teamwork and continuous improvement.

What We're Looking For:

• Experience: 5+ years in a retail leadership role, with a strong foundation in sales and operational management.
• Business Savvy: Proven expertise in strategic planning, budget oversight, and financial performance analysis.
• Team Builder: Strong background in hiring, developing, and retaining talent.
• Leader by Nature: Inspires others with enthusiasm, empathy, and a people-first mindset.
• Effective Communicator: Clear and confident in both verbal and written communication.
• Adaptable: Comfortable working nights, weekends, holidays, and in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Problem Solver: Solutions-oriented with a hands-on approach to overcoming challenges.
• Physical Requirements: Able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs and work on your feet in a retail setting.

Why You'll Love It Here:

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Make your mark as a leader with the autonomy to grow your store and your team.
• Community Impact: Be part of something bigger, empowering people to live healthier, more active lives.
• Career Growth: Access ongoing development, training resources, and internal advancement opportunities.
• Team Culture: Work with driven, passionate individuals who support each other and celebrate shared success.
• Dynamic Environment: Every day brings new challenges, customers, and moments to make a difference.

Benefits:

• Robust benefits packageincluding medical, dental, vision, FSA, HSA, EAP, and more
• 401(k) with 4% Company MatchAvailable to employees aged 21+ at company-owned stores.
• Exclusive DiscountsEnjoy savings on industry-leading products and specialized training programs.
• Training and advancement opportunitiesacross the Fleet Feet brand
• Professional DevelopmentGrow your career through mentorship opportunities, employee resource groups, and ongoing learning sessions designed to help you reach your full potential.
• Community EngagementGet involved in local outreach and service initiatives that align with our purpose-driven mission.
• Inspiring Team CultureJoin supportive, passionate teammates who live the mission every day.

• Benefits Summary: For full-time employees (30+ hours/week), check out our Fleet Feet benefits summary for details on healthcare, wellness, and more.

Equal Opportunity & Reasonable Accommodations:

We are an equal opportunity employer and believe having teams in which everyone brings their whole self to Fleet Feet is key to our success. We welcome people of all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in our hiring practices, workplace culture, and community engagement.

Fleet Feet utilizes E-Verify in all corporate and company-operated stores as part of the hiring process.

Full-Time