Operations Manager

About the Role

The Operations Manager (OM) leads through Ulta Beauty’s mission, vision, and values to develop a high-performing team that consistently delivers top-line sales growth. This role oversees a team of Task Associates and the Merchandise Manager (MM), supporting the management of store operations, including realignments, planograms, and inventory lifecycle processes (e.g., cycle counts, damages, testers, Return To Vendors (RTV), Destroy in Field (DIF), and inventory adjustments). The OM drives retail business performance through a focus on sales, inventory results, operational compliance, talent development, and process adherence.

Responsibilities

• Promote a culture of accountability to meet or exceed store goals for retail and service sales, guest loyalty (including credit), payroll, omni-channel, and retail shrink.
• Drive company profitability through operational excellence, top-line sales growth, and expense control.
• Leverage store forecasts and payroll budgets to support scheduling, maximize productivity, and achieve sales and payroll goals.
• Review, analyze, and react to financial and operational reporting, including store visit and audit results.
• Utilize company programs, tools, and resources to drive improvements and meet store goals.
• Perform makeup applications, skincare analysis, and product demonstrations to enhance guest service and drive sales.
• Stay informed about industry trends, products, and services to better serve guests.
• Maintain prompt, regular attendance and hold associates accountable to the attendance policy.
• Attract, hire, and retain a diverse team of top talent, addressing staffing needs efficiently.
• Build a highly engaged team that embodies the Ulta Beauty brand through collaboration, communication, and prioritization.
• Create an inclusive environment that encourages associate growth and engagement.
• Support professional development through training, feedback, coaching, performance reviews, and succession planning.
• Participate in ongoing training, including brand and category education, to drive sales performance.
• Ensure compliance with Ulta Beauty’s policies, procedures, and standards, including dress code and operational focuses.
• Execute ad set processes, visual sets, planograms, realignments, and inventory lifecycle tasks (e.g., cycle counts, damages, testers, RTVs, DIFs).
• Use scheduling and task management tools to prioritize and execute store workload, including resets, pricing updates, cleaning, and replenishment.
• Manage service, boutique, and store supply inventory and ordering processes within budget.
• Protect company assets and minimize loss by adhering to standards for workplace safety, inventory control, cash management, and loss prevention.
• Execute day-to-day inventory control processes (e.g., theft reporting, damages, hazardous waste, adjustments).
• Support continuous improvement by adopting company initiatives and technology, communicating expectations, and ensuring task execution.
• Communicate business trends, opportunities, operational challenges, and competitive insights to field leadership.

Requirements

• 2-3+ years of fast-paced retail management or relevant work experience.
• Proven success in financial management, including driving top-line sales, interpreting reporting data, managing payroll budgets, and controlling expenses.
• Retail management experience, including monitoring inventory levels, achieving operational excellence, driving a service culture, and executing merchandising directives.
• Leadership experience in attracting, developing, and motivating top talent, adapting to change, and fostering collaboration.

Skills

• Proficient with basic technology (e.g., Point of Sale systems, Microsoft Office, Apple devices).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to react under pressure, use good judgment in ambiguous situations, and adapt flexibly.

Special Position Requirements

• Work a flexible, full-time schedule, including days, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Availability to work shifts on Sundays and Mondays.
• Attend corporate business meetings and conferences.

Working Conditions

• Continuous mobility throughout the store during shift, including twisting, bending, pulling, pushing, crouching, stooping, and reaching.
• Continuous lifting and/or moving up to 25 lbs. during shift.
• Continuous coordination and manipulation of objects during shift.
• Frequent use of a computer, telephonic devices, and related office supplies.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $35.00 per hour, with additional compensation opportunities through the company’s bonus plan. Exact pay will be based on factors including education, qualifications, certifications, experience, level, shift, geographic location, and business needs.

Benefits

• Full-time positions are eligible for paid time off, health, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits.
• Part-time positions are eligible for dental, vision, life, and disability benefits.

For additional information, visit the Benefits and Career Development page.