Store Manager

About the role

Maison Polène is a French leather goods brand founded in 2016, known for its artisanal craftsmanship and organic designs inspired by nature. The company is experiencing significant growth and is looking to expand internationally, particularly in the United States. The Chicago boutique is set to open on Oak Street in the coming winter.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive sales performance and implement action plans to achieve business objectives.
• Represent Polène's excellence and serve as a brand ambassador in-store.
• Deliver and maintain an exceptional customer experience.
• Identify local market opportunities to attract and retain new customers.
• Champion clienteling initiatives and premium CRM best practices.
• Analyze KPIs and business performance to proactively drive results.
• Collaborate closely with headquarters teams to ensure operational excellence and brand consistency.
• Oversee inventory management in partnership with the stock team and Procurement Officer.
• Ensure seamless execution of operational processes, including repairs, warranties, returns, and exchanges.
• Maintain visual merchandising standards and luxury service expectations.
• Lead all aspects of store opening preparation, execution, and post-opening stabilization.
• Foster a collaborative, positive, and high-performing work environment that embodies the DNA of Maison Polène.
• Partner with the Retail Excellence and Training Manager to identify and address development opportunities.
• Optimize staffing, scheduling, and workforce planning.
• Lead recruitment, onboarding, and training of new team members.
• Inspire, coach, and motivate employees through daily briefings, performance discussions, and ongoing development.
• Build a culture of accountability, engagement, and exceptional client service.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 5 years of Store Manager experience within a luxury retail environment.
• Proven experience leading high-performing teams and driving business results.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, coach, and develop talent.
• Experience opening new stores is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated strengths in business development, performance management, and operational excellence.
• Strong clienteling and relationship-building capabilities.
• Fluent in English; additional language skills are a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive annual salary range of $90,000 - $100,000, plus bonus incentive.
• Monthly ICHRA medical stipend, allowing employees to choose the plan that works best for them.
• Dental and vision insurance with employer contributions.
• 401(k) plan.
• Monthly and quarterly performance bonuses.
• Paid Time Off, including vacation and sick time.
• Employee discount on our full range of leather goods and jewelry.
• Complimentary ClassPass membership to support employee wellness, fitness, and work-life balance.
• Commuter benefits for transit (pre-tax, where applicable).
• Opportunities for growth within our expanding U.S. retail network.
• A supportive, inclusive culture rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and teamwork.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other protected characteristic as defined by law.