What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Manager position at West Side Beer Distributing?
Company Description
West Side Beer Distributing is a family-owned and community-focused company with a passion for selling beer. Established in 1965, the company now operates four branches in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, and Romulus, serving approximately 4,500 retailers across 16 counties.
About the Role
As the General Manager, you'll support multiple locations and be responsible for driving top-line growth and bottom-line performance while leading Sales and Operations to achieve or exceed budgeted goals. This role ensures alignment with company vision, operational excellence, and a high-performance culture across all functions.
What You’ll Do
- Oversee Sales and Operations to ensure effective and efficient use of all resources (people, products, equipment, time, and capital).
- Drive top-line growth and bottom-line results in line with or exceeding budget.
- Partner with Ownership on strategic planning, priorities, and execution of key initiatives.
- Analyze financial statements, sales reports, and performance metrics to identify opportunities, improve programs, and reduce costs.
- Maintain strong market awareness (customers, competitors, and trends) to inform decision-making.
- Provide strong, visible leadership that promotes accountability, teamwork, and excellence.
- Coach, develop, and empower managers to enhance performance and engagement.
- Establish clear goals and expectations; monitor, evaluate, and report on team performance.
- Oversee performance reviews, compensation decisions, and performance-based incentive programs.
- Foster a positive work environment, leveraging employee feedback to drive continuous improvement.
- Lead problem-solving efforts to address inefficiencies, eliminate waste, and optimize staffing and expenses.
- Ensure consistent onboarding and standardized processes across all roles and functions.
- Maintain high standards for facility operations, appearance, and overall branch performance.
- Ensure compliance with all supplier requirements, regulatory standards, and company policies.
- Maintain a proactive safety culture; oversee incident reporting, investigations, and prevention initiatives.
- Ensure adherence to all operational, transportation, and safety regulations through regular monitoring and audits.
- Act as an engaged member of the Executive and Leadership Teams, fostering cross-functional communication and alignment.
- Partner with corporate functions (HR, Finance, IT) to implement programs and improve processes.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, suppliers, and community stakeholders.
- Represent the company in industry, supplier, and community engagements.
- Provide oversight and approval for disciplinary actions, terminations, and related decisions.
- Ensure consistent application of company policies and procedures.
- Validate and authorize performance results and related compensation programs.
- Deliver measurable financial and operational results.
- Lead with integrity, accountability, and consistency.
- Communicate effectively across all levels.
- Other duties, as assigned.
What You’ll Need
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management or related field (required)
- 10 years of progressive leadership experience in Sales and/or Operations across multiple sites or regions within the Beverage industry.
- MLCC License
- Experience working with suppliers, regulatory frameworks, and compliance standards (beverage/alcohol industry experience preferred)
- Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across executive leadership and cross-functional teams
- Strong business acumen
- Proficient in Microsoft and Google Suite applications
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly within region
- Must pass pre-employment physical, drug screen and background screening
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Works in a combination of office and field-based retail environments, including regular travel to customer locations and time spent on sales floors and warehouse including refrigerated cooler areas.
- Operates in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment requiring strong organization, efficiency, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Exercises sound judgment within established authority levels, evaluates risk before making decisions, and keeps appropriate stakeholders informed.
What We Offer
We take care of our team! As a General Manager at West Side Beer Distributing, you’ll enjoy:
- Competitive pay
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Company-paid Life, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability
- 401(k), Company Match, profit sharing contributions
- Paid Vacation / Sick Time
- Supportive, team-oriented work environment
West Side Beer Distributing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. West Side Beer Distributing strives to be a diverse and inclusive workplace that encourages multiple approaches and points of view. We believe that this creates an atmosphere where everyone, from any background, can do their best work.