Canada, Manitoba, Portage la Prairie

Applications due: 12 Oct, 2025

Job Synopsis

The Assistant Manager plays a key role in supporting the General Manager with daily store operations, including staff coordination, product flow, and customer service. This position requires leadership and reliability, as the Assistant Manager assumes full responsibility for the store in the General Manager’s absence. Additionally, the role involves contributing to the development and execution of strategic plans aimed at enhancing store performance, community engagement, and sustainability in alignment with the Portage MCC’s mission.

Job Details

Hourly Employee Full Time

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Awareness of and commitment to the mission of MCC and Portage MCC.

• A servant leader with a heart for volunteers, staff, and community members from all walks of life.

• Ability to positively represent the store and its mission under challenging circumstances.

• Self-motivated and willing to take initiative, while also responsive to the direction of the General Manager.

• Strong leadership and management skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Comfortable with technology, including computers and POS systems.
• Skilled in using social media for promotion and engagement.
• Experience in human resources.
• Background in business management.
• Retail experience, particularly in a thrift or second-hand environment.
• Awareness of second-hand market trends, retail merchandising, and customer preferences.
• Physical stamina and the ability to lift/move heavy/awkward items.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Remain on their feet for over 50% of the time while performing duties across multiple store locations.
• Regularly interact with the general public, including customers, donors, and a diverse team of volunteers and staff.
• Occasionally move and lift products weighing up to 50 pounds across the store and processing areas.
• Work in varied conditions, including outdoor weather when assisting with donations.
• Maintain composure and professionalism in busy retail environments and during peak customer periods.
• Navigate and manage multiple tasks simultaneously, requiring strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Key Responsibilities

1. Day-to-Day Store Operations (25%)

• Oversee opening and closing procedures for all three store locations.
• Respond to telephone and social media inquiries regarding store operations and the mission of Portage MCC and Mennonite Central Committee.
• Count, record, and deposit cash sales as required.
• Ensure all store areas are neat, clean, and visually appealing.
• Supervise, assist, and support volunteers and paid personnel in their daily tasks.

2. Processing (Store Back) (25%)

• Coordinate the efficient use of processing areas in collaboration with department heads.
• Maintain oversight of receiving, sorting, and pricing of donated merchandise.
• Help implement systems for efficient storage and rotation of inventory to maximize space and product flow.

3. Retail (Store Front) (25%)

• Provide oversight of sales areas, including displays and merchandising strategies.
• Assist in training and scheduling cashiers and storefront volunteers.
• Monitor and manage the quality, volume, and rotation of inventory on the sales floor.
• Stay informed on current retail trends and share relevant updates with staff.
• Help maintain and troubleshoot POS systems to ensure smooth transactions.
• Organize and oversee seasonal sales, promotions, and in-store events.

4. Administration (25%)

• Provide oversight of routine administrative tasks and ensure they are completed accurately and on time.
• Collaborate with the General Manager to plan and implement team meetings, department meetings, annual meetings, and special events.
• Carry out tasks as assigned by the General Manager.
• Model Christian service in the workplace and community through leadership that reflects Christ-like values in both words and actions.

Start Date

14 Oct, 2025 - Yes, if the successful candidate is available earlier

Salary Details

Base salary: $27

Benefits

Group Insurance; Personal Hours; Paid Christmas Vacation; Clothing/Footwear Stipend

Location Description

MCC Thrift Shops in Manitoba, partners of MCC, operate as independent financial and legal entities, each with its own employment policies, requirements, and processes. These 16 thrift shops, spread across 13 communities, generate revenue to support MCC's international and local programs while adhering to MCC's vision and missional values. Each shop is overseen by an autonomous volunteer Board of Directors.

Portage

Portage la Prairie is a city of approximately 13,000 people located in central Manitoba, about 85 kilometers west of Winnipeg. Situated along the Assiniboine River, the city is known for its rich agricultural history and vibrant community life. English is the primary language spoken, with a diverse population adding to the city's cultural fabric. The city is home to several annual events and festivals, such as the Portage Potato Festival, which celebrate its agricultural heritage and community spirit.