Store Lead

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Store Lead is responsible for delivering superior customer service, developing Team Members at all levels, and driving store sales and profitability. This role ensures effective execution of store operations, inventory management, merchandising standards, and company policies. The Store Lead is accountable for maintaining a positive store culture, managing payroll and expenses, and achieving key performance metrics.

BENEFITS

Team members who have worked an average of 36 hours a week or more and have completed six months of employment with the Company, are entitled to 24 hours of sick time per calendar year.

Team Members who work an average of 30 hours per week or more also may receive two paid holidays (dependent on if the holiday falls on a Sunday) throughout the calendar year.

Basic health insurance is offered after 90 days of employment to Team Members who work an average 36 hours per week or more.

A 401(k) non-employer matching plan is available to everyone who meets the eligibility criteria.

Pay Range

$21.00 – $28.00 per hour

Profit Share Program

Starting pay is based upon experience.

This position requires an average of 45–50 hours per week.

Profit Share Program

Store Leads are eligible to participate in a performance-based Profit Share Program. This program is designed to reward achievement of key financial and operational goals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The following are primary responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned.

Store Operations

Create and maintain a positive, productive store culture by leading through example.

Develop and manage Team Member schedules; post schedules at least 7 days in advance.

Maintain payroll and expense budgets within company targets.

Oversee daily store operations and ensure smooth execution of all functions.

Communicate operational issues and updates to the District Manager.

Manage preventative maintenance and repairs to protect store assets (building, fixtures, equipment).

Ensure completion of all District Manager visit action items prior to the next visit.

Monitor store KPIs and ensure performance meets or exceeds Ace benchmarks.

Challenge and coach Team Members to improve merchandising, control expenses, and grow sales.

Ensure proper cash handling procedures, including daily deposits and reporting.

Maintain appropriate cash levels in registers at all times.

Process incoming USPS mail and ROA payments accurately and timely.

Participate in district projects, trade shows, and company training as assigned.

Hiring & Team Development

Schedule and lead monthly staff meetings.

Ensure timely completion of all required training programs.

Identify and develop future leaders within the team in partnership with the District Manager.

Partner with District Manager and HR on hiring, disciplinary actions, and terminations.

Conduct annual performance reviews and provide compensation recommendations.

Support ongoing Team Member development and career pathing initiatives.

Merchandising & Inventory

Ensure merchandise is displayed to maximize customer engagement and sales.

Maintain working knowledge of Inventory Specialist processes to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Ensure store cleanliness, organization, and maintenance across all areas (sales floor, stockroom, restrooms, office).

Oversee timely and accurate completion of price changes and signage updates.

Ensure proper handling and accuracy of inter-store transfers.

Maintain current, accurate signage throughout the store.

Customer Service

Model and reinforce the W.O.W. customer service process consistently.

Ensure all Team Members deliver “Every Customer, Every Time” service.

Maintain effective and purposeful radio communication.

Demonstrate strong product knowledge and store awareness.

Respond promptly and professionally to all communications (calls, texts, emails, WhatsApp, radio).

Resolve customer concerns while balancing customer satisfaction and company interests.

Ensure timely and accurate fulfillment of special and online orders.

Maintain proficiency in register operations and assist as needed.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

Strong verbal, non-verbal, and written communication

Active listening and public speaking

Customer service excellence

Leadership and team development

Performance management and employee relations

Collaboration and teamwork

Time and stress management

Professionalism and accountability

Computer proficiency

Ability to read, interpret, and execute operational directives

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

High School Diploma or equivalent required

Completion of Summit Ace Progression and Training Program preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers; handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms for the duration of their shift. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. Must possess a current valid driver’s license and be able to drive 2 or more hours.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Summit Ace Progression and Training Program

About Jays Hardware Inc

Jay’s Hardware opened in Wrens, Georgia, on March 2, 1992. It began with a young father’s dream to build a place where his family could work together and see the fruits of their labor. That dream lives on in Summit Ace Hardware. Though the company has grown, it remains led by a member of the founder’s family—committed to creating meaningful careers and empowering others to build a life they’re proud of. Today, Summit Ace serves rural and suburban communities across Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama. Our mission is simple: meet the needs of our customers and invest in our team through training and support. Our core values—Respectful, Accountable, Passionate, Innovative, Driven, and Helpful—guide everything we do. More than a store, we are a part of each community we serve. And with the buying power of Ace Hardware, we offer big-store products with hometown service.