Job Description

The leading supermarket and multi-concept retail operation on Bald Head Island, North Carolina is seeking an experienced Director of Store Operations . Bald Head Island is an exclusive, car-free island community accessible only by passenger ferry, known for its pristine beaches, championship golf course, and tight-knit residential atmosphere.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a diverse retail operation that goes far beyond traditional grocery. You'll oversee a full-service market, casual food café, and fast-paced Asian takeout restaurant. The role offers the unique challenge of managing dramatic seasonal business fluctuations as the island's population swells from 300 year-round residents to several thousand during peak summer months. You'll build close relationships with vendors who understand the logistical challenges of ferry-dependent deliveries while becoming an integral part of this close-knit island community.

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience as a Store Manager/Store Director within an upscale supermarket chain with strong structure and standards
• Additional experience in an independent grocer where you "wore many hats," including fostering vendor relationships and managing the entire P&L
• Core grocery management experience is essential, but candidates with additional background in restaurant operations, hospitality, food service, or prepared foods will be particularly attractive

Key Responsibilities:

You'll oversee all aspects of this multi-faceted business, including the grocery market, café, Asian takeout restaurant, and coastal apparel retail. Manage a team of 50-60 seasonal employees while directly supervising the Store Manager and Food & Beverage Manager. Responsibilities span operations, finance, human resources, inventory management, food safety compliance, visual merchandising, community relations, facilities maintenance, and seasonal event planning. This position requires hands-on leadership and the ability to adapt quickly to the dynamic demands of serving both permanent residents and seasonal visitors.

Additional Requirements:

• Proven track record of building relationships with wholesale vendors and suppliers
• ServSafe certification and familiarity with food safety compliance across multiple food concepts (strongly preferred)
• Ability and willingness to relocate to Bald Head Island
• Adaptability to dramatic seasonal fluctuations and the personal nature of serving a small community

Compensation and Island Living:

• Competitive base salary depending on experience, benefits package, matching retirement account, and seasonal bonus potential based on performance
• Housing subsidy provided, recognizing the unique challenges of this exclusive community
• Relocation package
• Employee discounts across all business concepts
• Exceptional work-life balance in a beautiful, peaceful natural setting

Important Lifestyle Considerations:

Island living requires significant adjustments. Bald Head Island is accessible only by passenger ferry, with transportation limited to golf cart, bicycle, or foot. The seasonal nature creates intense summer periods followed by quieter winter months, requiring year-round flexibility. This opportunity is ideal for someone seeking a dramatic change of pace who values natural beauty, close community relationships, and unique business challenges.

If your background matches these requirements and you're ready to embrace island living, please apply now with your resume. We'll reach out right away if you're a strong match.

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