What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Manager position at Viroqua Food Co+op?
Company Description
The Viroqua Food Co-op is a community-owned natural foods grocery store and deli in Viroqua, WI. The Co-op is dedicated to providing natural, organic, and locally-sourced foods. With a mission rooted in cooperative values and exceptional customer service, the Co-op strives to be a center for community. As member-owners, the Co-op community works together to create an organization with enduring value.
About the Role
The Viroqua Food Co-op is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and values-driven General Manager to lead our community-owned grocery cooperative. The position is full-time, on-site in Viroqua, WI. This is an exceptional opportunity to guide a thriving, well‑established food co‑op in the vibrant community of Viroqua, located in Vernon County, WI. The rural community is in Wisconsin's Driftless Region, and is known for its unique topography and stunning landscapes, outdoor recreation, a thriving local food and arts culture, a strong agricultural community, and a commitment to sustainability.
The General Manager serves as the co‑op’s chief executive officer and is responsible for overall organizational performance, financial sustainability, and long‑term strategic success. Reporting directly to a member-elected Board of Directors, this role oversees all operational functions while ensuring alignment with the Co‑op’s mission, cooperative principles, and community values.
The General Manager will oversee the Co-op's daily operations, including staff management, financial oversight, strategic planning, and community engagement. The role involves leading efforts to achieve operational excellence, developing and implementing organizational policies, fostering a positive work culture, and ensuring customer satisfaction in alignment with the Co-op's mission.
Qualifications
· Five years of retail management experience (e.g., CEO, General Manager, Store Manager, Operations Manager, District Manager).
· Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and interpreting operational and financial metrics.
· Experience in integrating new technologies into retail operations.
· Demonstrated strategic planning ability and experience implementing organizational growth initiatives.
· Proven ability to build, motivate, and lead teams.
· Familiarity with natural, organic and local food systems and regulatory requirements in the food sector.
· Values and work ethic aligned with cooperative principles.