Retail Operations Manager

Retail Manager 

Job Summary 
Anakeesta is hiring a Retail Operations Manager to lead a designated area within our Retail and Photo Operations Department and drive exceptional guest experiences. This position oversees all aspects of daily operations, including staff leadership, merchandising, inventory control, photo operations, and sales performance. The Retail Operations Manager ensures team accountability, operational excellence, and a culture of recognition while delivering memorable experiences for every guest. 

While subject to change based on business needs, this role is expected to oversee the daily operations of Great Outdoors Trading Company, Anakeesta's flagship exit retail store, as well as all Photo Operations throughout the park. 

Your Responsibilities 

• Lead, motivate, and manage the retail team to deliver exceptional guest service. 

• Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team culture, encouraging collaboration and accountability. 

• Oversee the performance, staffing, and operational excellence of multiple retail locations, ensuring consistency while adapting to each location’s unique needs. 

• Manage daily operations across all stores, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and sales reconciliation. 

• Manage staffing, scheduling, and payroll to align with budgetary goals. 

• Anticipate and respond to fluctuating park attendance, adjusting staffing, floor coverage, inventory, and merchandising strategies to optimize sales during peak and off‑peak periods. 

• Train, coach, and develop retail associates, supervisors, and assistant managers to achieve individual performance targets and overall team goals. 

• Lead staff meetings and communicate important operational updates. 

• Monitor and manage inventory levels, restocking, and visual merchandising to maintain an attractive and engaging store environment. 

• Support new product launches, promotions, signage, and markdown execution. 

• Drive sales through team engagement, product knowledge, and guest-focused strategies. 

• Address guest concerns and feedback professionally, creating solutions that enhance guest satisfaction. 

• Ensure compliance with safety standards, company policies, and asset protection procedures. 

• Continually work to reduce shrink and strengthen loss‑prevention strategies tailored to high‑traffic retail environments. 

• Collaborate with park operations, entertainment, custodial, security, and other departments to ensure seamless guest flow and a cohesive in‑park experience. 

• Prepare, analyze, and submit sales and operational reports to senior management. 

• Perform other duties as assigned to support retail operations 

What You Need 

• 3 years of retail leadership experience, preferably in a high-volume or multi-location environment. 

• Strong guest service, communication, and conflict resolution skills. 

• Experience in merchandising, inventory management, and visual display. 

• Ability to lead, coach, and develop a team in a fast-paced retail environment. 

• Proficiency in cash handling, POS systems, and retail operations. 

• Positive attitude, flexibility, and availability to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays. 

• Willingness to complete CPR/AED training and obtain ABC license and ServSafe certification. 

Physical Requirements 

• Able to lift up to 60 lbs. 

• Able to push, pull, grasp, kneel, stoop, climb, crouch, crawl, and balance. 

• Able to stand and/or walk on uneven terrain for long periods of time. 

Perks of Working With Us 

• Work with an enthusiastic team and create lasting memories. 

• Free parking. 

• Competitive pay. 

• Paid time off. 

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance. 

• Life insurance. 

• 401(k) retirement plan. 

• Free admission for employees and immediate family. 

• Employee discounts on food and merchandise. 

• Generous pass exchange program with area attractions. 

About Us 
Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offering award-winning outdoor experiences with breathtaking views, thrilling attractions, and genuine Smoky Mountain hospitality. We believe in creating unforgettable memories for our guests and an inspiring, growth-oriented environment for our team. 

"Be a Breath of Fresh Air" 

Salary : $65,000