Job Summary
Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. is seeking a dynamic and energetic full-time Operations Manager to join the DBI team in opening and operating The Local @414 (The Local).
The ideal team member will possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with experience in retail management, sales, inventory control, and customer service. This role requires strategic planning, team participation, and operational excellence to drive business growth and customer satisfaction. This candidate will report to the Executive Director of Downtown Blacksburg, Inc.
About the Space
The Local @414, supported by 414 LLC. and managed by Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. (DBI), is a vibrant downtown space designed to support local entrepreneurs, engage the community, and enhance the downtown experience. It combines three main functions:
Retail Business Incubator: At its core, The Local serves as a retail business incubator, providing affordable space and utilities for new and small businesses to launch and grow. Entrepreneurs benefit from access to local mentors, business consulting, marketing support, and technical resources, helping them reach new and underserved markets in Blacksburg. For more information on The Local, visit downtownblacksburg.com.
Event and Meeting Space: In addition to its role as an incubator, The Local offers flexible event and meeting spaces, including a reception area, conference room, and kitchen, which are available for public rental and can host small events, meetings, and community gatherings.
Visitor and Resident Information Hub: The facility also functions as a visitor and resident information hub, providing maps, brochures, event details, and other resources to help people navigate and enjoy downtown Blacksburg.
Roles and Responsibilities
● Operational Oversight: Manage daily facility operations, including Point of Sale (POS) systems, inventory, and shared retail maintenance. Oversee lease administration, policy enforcement, building safety/accessibility, and the facility rental calendar while supervising support staff and procuring operational supplies.
● Vendor Relations, Recruitment & Retention: Serve as the lead contact for vendor onboarding, move-ins, and logistics. Execute a strategic recruitment and rotation plan to keep the incubator diverse and vibrant, including the management of tenant exit strategies.
● Process Optimization: Design and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for merchandising, staffing, and customer service to ensure a professional, consistent brand experience across all vendors.
● Performance Tracking: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) (foot traffic, conversion, turnover) to provide tenants with actionable sales and financial insights. Collaborate with the DBI Executive Director and Advisory Committee to meet annual benchmarks and produce progress reports for the Downtown Blacksburg, Inc Board of Directors and Town of Blacksburg.
● Event Coordination: Lead the logistics for pop-ups, workshops, and community events. Partner with DBI staff to market and promote initiatives that drive foot traffic and increase incubator visibility.
● Marketing & Promotions: Lead the digital presence for The Local, ensuring the incubator is recognized as a premier destination for local shopping and entrepreneurship in Downtown Blacksburg. Develop and execute a content calendar across platforms (Instagram, Facebook, etc.), and maintain The Local website. Coordinate email newsletters and local media outreach to announce new cohort launches, seasonal collections, and special retail milestones.
Skills and Experience
● Proven experience in retail management, specifically within multi-vendor environments or boutique collectives.
● Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
● Strong communication skills[1] and experience working with social media and website management.
● Proficiency in managing POS systems, payroll software, bookkeeping tools, and inventory management systems.
● Demonstrated experience in negotiation, marketing, merchandising, and sales management.
● Ability to supervise staff effectively and work with partner organizations.
● Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to handle customer service issues
● Bachelor’s degree in communication, marketing, or similar or applicable experience
Disclaimer
This job description summarizes the typical functions of the job and is not an exhaustive list of all possible job responsibilities or opportunities.
Compensation
This is a full-time salary position, compensation commensurate with experience.
Benefits
A health care stipend of $500 per calendar month is provided to employee.
How to Apply
indeed.com
Pay: From $60,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
