Vice President of Retail Operations

Position SummaryThe Vice President of Retail Operations provides executive leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for all retail stores, donation centers, outlet operations, transportation, warehousing, and logistics functions. This role ensures effective daily movement, distribution, and optimization of donated goods across a multi-site retail network, maximizing revenue generation, operational performance, donor engagement, customer satisfaction, employee development, and mission impact.
The ideal candidate is a mission-driven, visionary leader with deep retail/thrift expertise, strong logistics and supply chain acumen, and proven success leading multi-site operations. This individual excels at building high-performing teams, driving operational excellence, and aligning retail operations with the mission of the organization.
Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipDevelop and execute short‑ and long‑term retail and logistics strategies that support organizational growth and sustainability.Establish annual goals, budgets, KPIs, and operational priorities for retail and distribution operations.Identify opportunities to increase revenue, donation volume, market presence, and operational efficiency.Serve as a member of the Executive Leadership Team and contribute to organizational planning and decision‑making.Retail & Logistics Operations LeadershipProvide executive oversight for all thrift stores, donation centers, outlet operations, transportation, warehousing, and distribution functions.Lead the design, optimization, and continuous improvement of logistics processes, including routing, load balancing, inter‑store transfers, and inventory flow.Ensure efficient daily movement of donated goods between stores to maximize product availability, quality, and sales potential.Implement consistent standards for merchandising, pricing, inventory management, customer service, and operational execution.Monitor store and logistics performance, using data to drive improvements in sales, productivity, profitability, and customer experience.Lead operational excellence initiatives focused on continuous improvement, Lean practices, and best‑in‑class retail and logistics operations.Financial StewardshipDevelop and manage annual operating and capital budgets for retail and logistics operations.Analyze financial reports, operational metrics, transportation costs, and market trends to guide business decisions.Ensure responsible stewardship of organizational assets, including fleet, equipment, facilities, and inventory.Achieve financial objectives while maintaining mission‑focused accessibility and affordability.Leadership & Talent DevelopmentRecruit, develop, coach, and evaluate retail and logistics leadership teams.Build leadership succession plans and strengthen organizational bench strength.Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, inclusion, and continuous learning.Partner with Human Resources to anticipate workforce needs, develop talent strategies, and support organizational growth.Donor, Customer & Community ExperienceChampion exceptional donor, customer, and volunteer experiences across all locations.Develop strategies to increase donor acquisition, retention, and loyalty.Ensure stores and donation centers reflect a welcoming, safe, and mission‑centered environment.Respond proactively to customer feedback and community needs.Represent the organization in the community, industry associations, and strategic partnerships.Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including employment, safety, transportation, and retail requirements.Maintain operational policies, procedures, and internal controls.Oversee loss prevention, safety initiatives, risk mitigation, and asset protection programs.Ensure effective management of facilities, fleet, equipment, and operational resources.Required QualificationsMinimum of ten (10) years of progressive retail leadership experience, preferably in thrift, resale, or mission‑driven environments.Minimum of five (5) years leading multi‑site retail operations.Demonstrated experience overseeing logistics, transportation, warehousing, or supply chain operations.Proven success managing large teams, budgets, and complex operational environments.Valid driver’s license with a safe driving record.Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required. Equivalent experience in retail, operations, logistics, or business leadership will be considered.