Position Overview
The General Manager (GM) of the Natural Food Co-op provides visionary, hands-on leadership to ensure the successful daily operation and long-term growth of the store. This role oversees staff, inventory, financial performance, vendor relationships, and customer service. The GM works closely with the Board of Directors and attends monthly board meetings to report on progress, challenges, and opportunities.The ideal candidate is mission-driven, entrepreneurial, and deeply committed to fostering a friendly, welcoming environment. They bring fresh ideas, embrace innovation, and are eager to help grow the co-op’s impact within the community. Most importantly, they have a passion for the mission of the Natural Food Co-op, which is providing nutritious, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible products to the people of Litchfield and surrounding communities.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Staff Management
- Lead, mentor, and supervise employees to ensure excellent customer service and efficient store operations.
- Oversee hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluations.
- Foster a collaborative, motivated, and positive work culture.
- Model strong communication, professionalism, and teamwork.
Operations & Inventory Management
- Oversee daily store operations to ensure a clean, organized, and safe shopping environment.
- Manage inventory levels, conduct regular stock reviews, and determine which products are performing well.
- Place accurate, timely orders based on sales trends, customer needs, and financial targets.
- Implement systems for waste reduction, product rotation, and back-stock management.
Financial Management
- Develop, manage, and monitor the store’s annual operating budget.
- Track financial performance, including sales, margins, labor costs, and expenses.
- Identify opportunities to increase revenue and improve operational efficiency.
- Provide financial reports and analysis to the Board of Directors each month.
- Assist in finding applicable grants, providing support during the writing process and submitting them on time.
- Implement new ideas that enhance customer experience and drive growth.
- Collaborate with the Board on strategic planning and long-term development.
- Represent the co-op within the community and build positive relationships with customers and partners.
Board Communication & Governance
- Attend monthly board meetings and provide clear, detailed reporting on operations, finances, and initiatives.
- Work cooperatively with the Board by offering recommendations, implementing board-approved decisions, and ensuring alignment with the co-op’s bylaws and vision.
Qualifications
- Proven leadership experience in retail, grocery, natural foods, or a related industry.
- Strong skills in staff management, budgeting, and operational oversight.
- Ability to analyze sales data, forecast needs, and manage inventory efficiently.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Knowledge of natural foods, local sourcing, or cooperative principles preferred.
- Comfortable working with point-of-sale systems, inventory tools, and basic office software.
Personal Qualities
The Board is seeking a General Manager who is:- Driven and motivated to help the co-op thrive.
- Open to new ideas and enthusiastic about implementing positive changes.
- Ambitious, forward-thinking, and eager to grow the store’s reach and profitability.
- Friendly, approachable, and helpful in all customer and staff interactions.
- Committed to the co-op’s mission and the Litchfield community.
Please apply by emailing your resume to nfc.boardmembers@gmail.com
