Manager, Retail Inventory Operations

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Manager, Retail Inventory Operations based in Canada. The Manager, Retail Inventory Operations will lead inventory strategy, operational execution, and continuous improvement across a large retail store network in Canada and the US. This role combines retail operations, inventory management, technology, analytics, and cross-functional leadership. You will optimize product availability while strengthening inventory accuracy, reducing shrink, and improving store efficiency. As the business owner for the in-store technology roadmap and point-of-sale ecosystem, you will help shape tools and processes that directly impact store teams and customers. You will partner closely with Supply Chain, Transportation, Finance, Loss Prevention, Digital, Technology, and Retail Training teams. The role also includes leadership of a small specialist team and responsibility for driving successful operational and technology transformations. Your work will directly support a seamless, efficient, and customer-focused retail experience. Accountabilities - Design, document, implement, and oversee in-store inventory and logistics processes, including receiving, unpacking, sorting, returns, store-to-store transfers, and outbound shipments. - Develop strategies to maximize product availability and on-floor inventory levels, using RFID and other inventory management technologies. - Establish training, compliance, and operational standards that maintain accurate physical inventory across sales floors, back-of-house areas, and staging locations. - Partner with Transportation and Supply Chain teams to align delivery schedules, receiving windows, carrier performance, and store capacity. - Lead omni-channel inventory capabilities, including Buy Online, Pick Up In Store (BOPIS), Ship From Store, and emerging fulfillment models.

- Develop and execute strategies to reduce operational and administrative shrink in partnership with Loss Prevention and Finance. - Create internal inventory audit programs to identify risks and protect inventory integrity before they result in losses. - Own the in-store technology roadmap in partnership with Digital and Technology teams, prioritizing initiatives that improve efficiency and customer experience. - Oversee procurement, deployment, replacement, and lifecycle management of in-store hardware, including POS systems, handheld scanners, mobile devices, and networking equipment. - Represent the needs of store associates and customers when influencing technology design and system decisions, ensuring solutions are intuitive, reliable, and operationally effective. - Lead, coach, and develop a team of two Inventory and Technology Operations Specialists through clear objectives, feedback, prioritization, and development opportunities. - Partner with Retail Training to ensure new processes and technology implementations are supported by effective training and change management. - Build strong relationships with senior leaders and cross-functional partners across Retail Operations, IT, Finance, Supply Chain, Product, and field teams. Requirements - At least 5 years of experience in workforce management, retail operations analytics, labor planning, inventory operations, or a related analytical discipline. - Strong knowledge of retail stores, operating processes, service models, and opportunities to improve operational routines. - Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, with strong data modeling, analytical, and financial skills. - Demonstrated ability to translate data and operational insights into practical strategies and business decisions. - Experience leading direct reports or project teams, including coaching, prioritizing work, and driving execution through others.