Catering & Store Operations Manager

About Us: 29 Acres has acquired a franchise called Howdy homemade by 29. Howdy Homemade Ice Cream  harnesses the hope & hard work of people with special needs. Howdy Homemade Ice Cream is rated one of the top 10 ice creams in Dallas Ft Worth whose mission is to employ adults with autism and other special needs. Nationwide,  Howdy has created more than 160 sustainable jobs for people with special needs. Our secret sauce is our employees, who create an atmosphere “more magical than Disney,” according to some customers.And while we like to let our ice cream speak for itself, we are proud that it’s all super premium, homemade, and we offer unique flavors like our best-selling Dr Pepper Chocolate Chip.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dynamic Ice Cream Store Manager to oversee daily operations, inspire our team, and deliver exceptional customer service. The Store Manager will be responsible for managing staff, ensuring high-quality service, maintaining inventory, and driving the shop’s profitability while creating a fun and welcoming environment. Initially, Howdy Homemade by 29 will launch as a catering opportunity while we await the delivery of our retail store in 2026/2027. 

Position Qualifications

• Required: Food Handler’s Certification or willingness to obtain one.

• Required: Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for catering events and eventually retail store management.  The schedule must be flexible .

• Required: Previous experience working with individuals with autism and other special needs

• Required: Previous experience in a management role, preferably in a food service or retail environment (ice cream shop experience a plus but not required).

• Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate and inspire staff.

• Excellent customer service and communication skills.

• Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic inventory management tools.

• Required: High school diploma or equivalent; 

  • Preferred: additional education or certifications in hospitality or business management.

  • Preferred: degree is special education highly preferable. 

• Passion for ice cream and creating a fun, community-oriented atmosphere.

• Must have patience and compassion for individuals with autism and other special needs. 

• Required: must be able to work evenings and weekends 

• Required: must have a valid drivers license and be comfortable driving a transit van. 

• Required: must pass a background check.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee all catering functions including inquiries and ice cream preparation for events,  training of staff for catering, on-site management of catering events and the marketing for all catering opportunities. In summer of 2026, the retail store opportunity will be available and the store manager will oversee these operations also. 

• Oversee daily of the retail space and  off site catering events, operations, including opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and maintaining a clean and safe environment.

• Manage, train, and schedule a team of scoopers, shift leads, and other staff to ensure excellent customer service.

• Monitor inventory, order supplies, and manage stock levels for ice cream, toppings, and other materials.

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and food handling regulations (e.g., State Food Handler’s Management Certification).

• Drive sales and profitability by meeting company budgets and implementing promotional strategies for the retail store and catering events.

• Handle customer inquiries, resolve complaints, and maintain a positive guest experience.

• Conduct regular inventory counts and coordinate deliveries.

• Train staff on menu items, quality standards, and customer service protocols.

• Collaborate with regional management to implement company policies and initiatives.

• Collaborate with and maintain productive relationships with franchise representatives.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of duties, responsibilities, or activities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

*29 Acres is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applications will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military status, prior record of arrest or conviction, or current employment status. 29 Acres is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe social change happens when people with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and identities come together with a common purpose. We encourage candidates from different backgrounds to apply.