Specialty Team Leader (Beer, Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Department Manager)

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Part-time
Hourly
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Compensation

Hourly
Range $23.60 - $42.50
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Weekend Shifts
Night Shifts
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Benefits

Store discount
Paid Time Off
Financial wellness
Health support programs
Team member perks

Job Description

Whole Foods Market is a renowned grocery store chain that is committed to health, sustainability, and high-quality food. At its core, Whole Foods Market is more than just a place to shop for groceries; it is a community-oriented establishment dedicated to nourishing people and the planet. The company pioneers initiatives that improve how people eat, including funding grants for school gardens, providing fresh and healthy food access in underserved areas known as food deserts, and working to alleviate poverty in developing countries. The company’s purpose extends beyond retail operations—it seeks to make meaningful social and environmental change worldwide. Employees at Whole Foods Market have the unique opportunity to contribute to this mission and be part of a company that continuously sets new standards of excellence and innovation in the grocery industry.

This role focuses on leadership within the Specialty team at Whole Foods Market. The position entails comprehensive oversight of daily Specialty department operations, including profitability management, expense control, merchandise buying, inventory and labor management, regulatory compliance, and the execution of special projects. The Specialty Team Leader plays a vital role in cultivating a high-performing team by leading and developing Associate Team Leaders and Team Members through hiring, training, performance evaluation, and corrective action when necessary. Success in this role requires maintaining a positive company image through courteous, efficient customer service and commitment to the company’s core values. Additionally, the Specialty Team Leader is responsible for ensuring adherence to safety and food regulatory guidelines, inventory control, and loyalty to Whole Foods Market’s standards for retail excellence. Collaboration with other departmental and store leadership is essential to fostering a productive workplace environment, promoting teamwork, and maintaining outstanding morale. This position demands someone who can balance strategic operational goals with servant leadership to inspire and motivate the team. The position offers a wage range of $23.60 to $42.50 hourly, depending on experience. Whole Foods Market provides a comprehensive benefits program known as Whole Benefits, which supports both full-time and part-time team members. Benefits include store discounts, paid time off, financial wellness programs, health support, and other perks. The company values equal employment opportunities and promotes inclusivity and diversity in hiring practices, ensuring a workplace free from discrimination based on any legally protected characteristics.

Job Requirements

  • 24+ months retail experience including 12+ months of team leadership experience
  • ability to lift 50 pounds
  • ability to stand/walk 6-8 hours daily
  • hand use including grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, and pulling
  • ability to bend, twist, squat, and reach
  • exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals
  • ability to work in temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit
  • ability to work in wet and cold environments
  • flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • ability to use tools like box cutters and electric pallet jacks
  • completion of TIPS course if serving alcohol
  • must be 18 years or older to serve alcohol

Job Qualifications

  • Advanced knowledge of products, buying, pricing, merchandising, and inventory management
  • food safety certification or commitment to obtain within 6 months
  • excellent interpersonal, motivational, team building, and customer relationship skills
  • ability to teach others positively
  • thorough product knowledge
  • advanced knowledge of regulatory and safety policies
  • proficiency in math skills for financial performance and inventory management
  • demonstrated decision-making and leadership skills
  • proficiency with email, Microsoft Office, and operations-related applications

Job Duties

  • Hold associate team leaders, supervisors, and team members accountable for delivering outstanding customer service
  • define and develop clear expectations to achieve high retail execution standards
  • effectively delegate and empower team members
  • monitor and achieve sales, margin, expense, and labor targets
  • maintain product assortment, merchandising, and inventory control
  • ensure products are cross-merchandised according to guidelines
  • adhere to category management schedules and planograms
  • display nutritional information correctly
  • establish productive relationships with department and store leadership
  • comply with regulatory rules and standards
  • foster a positive environment of teamwork and morale
  • manage customer flow and respond to customer needs
  • select, train, develop, mentor, and motivate team members
  • communicate and maintain safety and security standards
  • provide performance evaluations
  • model Whole Foods Market vision and goals

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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