General Manager

General Manager Position

The Rutland Area Food Co-op (RAFC), a mission-driven retail organization, and community hub for regional, natural, and organic foods and products, is seeking an energetic, community-oriented General Manager to bring leadership, vision, and financial and operational success to drive the Co-op’s growth.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Strategy

● Create and implement store policies and procedures that foster an environment that ensures financial sustainability, as well as strengthens the cooperative’s relevance.

● Establish and evaluate development goals and priorities, including the assessment of capital needs and performance objectives for department managers.

● Lead or oversee capital improvement projects, store renovations, equipment and technology upgrades, layout changes, and other facility-related initiatives.

● Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set strategic goals and implement policies that advance the Co-op’s mission and strengthen its community role.

● Report to the Board of Directors and maintain a strong, transparent, and productive working relationship with the Board.

Operations and Finance

● Oversee the Co-op's day-to-day operations, ensuring optimal store conditions, customer satisfaction, and financial sustainability.

● Monitor budget progression, taking corrective action to meet established goals.

● Direct and monitor the store’s financial performance, including sales, gross margin, labor costs, operating expenses, cash flow, and profitability.

● Prepare annual budgets, capital plans, and financial reporting for the Board of Directors.

Community and Marketing

● Build and maintain positive relationships with owners and the greater community to promote the RAFC mission and broaden community participation.

● Oversee and collaborate on marketing efforts to increase public awareness of the Co-op’s products and services and contribute to community education.

Staff Management

● Recruit, develop, supervise, and support a strong management team and store staff.

● Set clear expectations for performance, accountability, communication, teamwork, and customer service.

● Provide thoughtful evaluation, promotion, discipline, and/or dismissal of staff.

● Ensure a safe and respectful workplace culture for all employees through consistent staff meetings, training opportunities, and a comprehensive employee handbook.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

● Retail management experience, including responsibility for setting sales goals, product merchandising, purchasing and pricing guidelines, marketing, and bottom-line decisions.

● Values that align with cooperative business principles.

● High-level communication skills, both written and verbal.

● Proven ability to lead and inspire teams with a demonstrated commitment to fostering inclusivity, engagement, and shared success.

● Strong financial literacy, including budgeting, forecasting, P&L management, margin analysis, cash flow awareness, and performance reporting.

● Strong delegation skills and the ability to build, develop, and lead a team.

● Experience with strategic planning.

Desired:

● 5+ years of experience in natural foods and/or Co-op retail management.

● Knowledge of natural and organic foods, food systems, and environmental sustainability.

● Experience with fundraising and/or owner loan campaigns.

● Ability to participate in occasional physical tasks (lifting items, extended standing.) ● Proficiency with point-of-sale systems and QuickBooks.

● Knowledge of care and maintenance for retail/food store equipment.

● Familiarity with writing business plans and sourcing financing for large projects.

● Understanding of key components of a cohesive marketing plan.

● Experience with membership-based organizations, community engagement, or cooperative governance.

APPLICATION DETAILS

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and qualified candidates will be contacted promptly. Don’t miss this opportunity to lead and grow with us—apply today!

Salary: $70,000–$80,000