Job Description

WHO YOU ARE:

We are looking for a passionate, dynamic and results-driven Operational Excellence Manager to join the Ardene Headquarters Store Operations team. This role is integral to elevating store performance by combining operational precision with a strong focus on people development. The Operations Manager will lead initiatives that enhance consistency, efficiency, and execution across all stores while fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Reporting to the Head of Stores, the responsibilities of the Operational Excellence Manager include, but are not limited to:

Training & Development

• Design and deliver operational training programs, tools, and content that align with business strategy and support company objectives.
• Create effective and engaging resources such as guides, playbooks, and checklists to enhance store team performance.
• Build training and development content tailored to store operations and team growth.
• Identify training needs across regions and develop targeted initiatives to strengthen operational capabilities.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and continuously improve content based on feedback and performance outcomes.

Operational

• Oversee and support the execution of daily store operations, ensuring efficiency and consistency in all processes.
• Address and resolve operational challenges, including inventory management, OMNI process execution, and adherence to store and service standards.
• Monitor operational compliance across regions and identify opportunities to streamline procedures and improve store performance.
• Conduct weekly store visits at the Headquarter’s Flagship store, and accompany Head of Stores and OPS team on additional store visits to assess performance and support operational initiatives.
• Collaborate with store District Supervisors and Regional Directors to ensure best practices are communicated, understood, and applied consistently.

Team Leadership & Project Management

• Manage a team of 3 OPS members, including the Operational Coordinator, Operational Specialist, and Project Lead, overseeing all projects, tasks, and initiatives associated with the Store Operations team.
• Drive the team toward achieving corporate objectives and strategic goals.
• Support team development through coaching, mentoring, and performance management.

Strategic Alignment & Communication

• Partner cross-functionally with HR, Marketing, Visual, and Brand teams to align operational and training strategies with overall company goals.
• Deliver presentations, and lead meetings that engage and inspire teams.
• Drive strong communication to stores and take ownership of weekly newsletter content.
• Contribute to strategic projects that enhance operational excellence and support long-term business growth.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Bachelor’s degree in business management, retail management or other related field of study.
• 5+ year of experience in retail operations.
• Experience in retail operations, store management, or a related field, with a strong focus on operational excellence and team development.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to interact with multiple stakeholder groups across the organization at various levels.
• Ability to build and lead a high functioning team that are results oriented.
• Ability to adapt and adjust to shifting priorities.
• Ability to introduce new ideas to enhance both operations and training effectiveness.
• Ability to foster and build trust and alignment across teams and functions.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute business strategies and initiatives that achieve financial performance and operational targets.
• Proficiency with digital tools and platforms used for operations, training, and communication (e.g., SurveyMonkey, GoCanvas, Microsoft Office Suite).
• Demonstrated analytical, strategic thinking, and problem solving skills.
• Bilingual (English/French).
• Ability to work in-office 5-days per week.

GROW WITH US!

We’re pretty proud to say that everything we do starts with our people – whether it’s in-store or at the head office. From sales associates and store leadership; dedicated in-house apparel and design teams; marketing, brand, and digital experts; stylists, photographers, and graphic designers; all the way to store concept and operations. We do it all. Ardene is truly a creative hub that is second to none.

Be part of a fun, dynamic and energetic team! Join our team and begin your career at one of North America’s top retail chains!