Sole Motive is a family owned Australian running business with over 45 years of history. We operate specialty running stores, major running events, publishing and community programs, all built around a deep connection to the running community.
The role
We are seeking an experienced Retail Manager to lead our retail operations across multiple locations. This is a senior, hands on leadership role combining strong shop floor presence with full ownership of retail performance.
The role is approximately 50–60% on the shop floor and requires a leader who is comfortable coaching teams in real time while also driving commercial outcomes. You will directly manage Assistant Store Managers and be accountable for retail operations, people performance, inventory outcomes and customer experience.
A key focus of this role is to drive operational efficiencies, improve retail profitability and introduce clearer systems and processes that support consistency and future scale.
Key responsibilities
Retail operations
* Lead daily retail operations across all Sole Motive stores, pop up locations and warehouse fulfillment
* Ensure consistent standards across stores including service, presentation and operational execution
* Identify and implement operational improvements that increase efficiency, reduce friction and support scalable retail operations
* Be a visible, hands on leader on the shop floor, supporting teams during peak trading and complex customer interactions
People leadership
* Directly manage, coach and develop Assistant Store Managers
* Recruit, onboard and train senior retail team members
* Build capability, accountability and consistency across the retail team
Sales and performance
* Own retail sales targets, KPIs and operational budgets
* Analyse store and category performance to identify risks and growth opportunities
* Drive improvements in conversion, average transaction value, units per transaction and customer retention
* Report retail performance, insights and actions to senior leadership
Inventory and stock management
* Own retail stock purchasing, replenishment and seasonal indent decisions
* Proactively manage stock risk including overstock, transfers, markdowns and exits
* Oversee warehouse stock flow, accuracy and transfers to support store performance
* Own in store customer experience outcomes
* Review and respond to customer feedback including Google reviews
* Ensure stores feel welcoming, knowledgeable and community focused
Community and brand
* Ensure stores operate as genuine community hubs for local runners
* Support local partnerships with run clubs, podiatrists, physios and fitness groups
* Work closely with Brand, Events and Publishing teams to activate campaigns at a local level
About you
* Proven experience in multi site or high volume specialty retail
* Strong commercial and inventory management capability
* Confident, hands on people leader who leads from the floor
* Interest in running, fitness or sport
* Comfortable balancing day to day leadership with planning and analysis
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