Assistant Store Manager - J.D. Irving, Truro

Role overview

Are you interested in exploring future leadership opportunities with Kent Building Supplies? Although this is not a current vacancy, we are always looking to connect with talented retail leaders and invite interested candidates to express their interest in potential Assistant Store Manager Opportunities across our store network in Truro, NS. At KENT, we believe our success is driven by strong, people-focused leadership and operational excellence. Each retail location operates as a complex, multi-unit business designed to serve a wide range of customer needs.

As an Assistant Store Manager - Back-End Operations, you will play a critical leadership role in ensuring these business lines are supported through safe, efficient, and accurate operational execution. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires the ability to manage complexity, balance competing priorities, and collaborate closely with front-end leaders to ensure the entire store operates as one aligned, high-performing business.

Day-to-day

As an Assistant Store Manager - Back-End Operations, you will ensure the foundational systems and teams that support Retail, Pro, and Install Sales operate safely, efficiently, and consistently. Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the building materials yard, shipping, and order-picking functions to support store-wide execution and customer fulfillment.
• Ensure accurate inventory counts, loss prevention practices, and strong controls across back-end areas.
• Ensure the yard and back-end workspaces are organized, compliant, and safe for both associates and customers.
• Partner with front-end leadership to support lumber, building materials, Pro, and Install Sales execution through accurate product availability and timely fulfillment.
• Review sales, operational, and inventory data to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, service levels, and profitability.
• Oversee delivery operations to ensure timely, efficient service aligned with customer expectations.
• Coach, train, and support associates through regular check-ins, feedback, and development conversations.
• Leverage Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook), Kronos for timekeeping, and D365 for inventory, sales, and operational tracking.

Who we're looking for

We are seeking candidates who bring the following qualifications and strengths to our retail operations:

• 5+ years experience in retail management
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
• Exceptional customer service skills
• Ability to leverage technology for project management, analysis, and solving problems including Microsoft Office Suite
• Openness to continuous improvement and responsibility for independent learning
• Flexible schedule based on retail needs
• Shrink and inventory control experience
• 21+ years of age due to the forklift training requirement (in-house to be provided); previous forklift experience is considered an asset

Perks and benefits

J.D. Irving and Kent Building Supplies support team members with comprehensive total rewards and career growth opportunities:

• Competitive salary with eligibility for annual bonus incentives
• Wellness Program
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Employee Discounts
• Medical, Dental, Vision, RRSP Matching, and PTO benefits
• Growth and development opportunities through KENT and the greater J.D. Irving, Limited organization