Store Manager - Johnny Was - Southport, Chicago

Johnny Was, LLC

At Johnny Was, our mission is to inspire free‑spirited optimism through beauty, authenticity, comfort and artistic expression.

The Store Manager will serve as both a brand ambassador and a dynamic business leader, dedicated to delivering elevated experiences for both clients and the internal team. This individual will play a critical role in building and developing a high‑performing sales team, ensuring the store is equipped to provide exceptional service at every touchpoint. The Store Manager will drive the success of the business by coaching and leading a diverse team of sales professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and client‑centric excellence.

In partnership with the Regional Director, they will leverage key business insights to inform strategy and performance. Fully accountable for the store, the Store Manager will take ownership of all aspects of the business, with a strong focus on delivering client experiences and achieving sustained growth.

• Meet and exceed the store sales plan while managing payroll and expenses to drive profitability.
• Staff the store and develop a high‑performing, best‑in‑class team.
• Demonstrate strong business acumen, strategically forecast, plan and budget.
• Utilize all tools and support available within the business framework to drive topline results.
• Act as a brand ambassador in the local market/mall to drive brand loyalty and business.
• Use all retail systems and reporting tools.
• Control inventory and loss prevention.
• Implement and enforce all company operations, standards, and practices, ensuring compliance with policies.
• Develop a culture of trust, integrity, and excellence by modeling professionalism and setting performance expectations.
• Onboard, coach, develop, and motivate the team through ongoing feedback, support and accountability.
• Partner with HR to address performance concerns and maintain accurate documentation.
• Lead the sales team by example through sales efforts and customer service on the sales floor to increase profitability.
• Maintain dress code compliance and prioritize customer and employee experience.
• Show confidence when leading the team and managing the store, taking initiative and accountability for results.
• Recruit high‑level candidates and develop a store team that meets service and sales goals.

• Cultivate an inviting atmosphere that makes every client feel genuinely welcomed and deeply valued.
• Develop a client engagement mindset focused on building long‑lasting relationships.
• Leverage data, tools and key metrics to drive business results while increasing client retention and loyalty.
• Provide a personalized and positive in‑store experience with excellent service and a solution‑oriented approach to client inquiries, handling transactions and returns efficiently.

• Minimum of 4+ years of sales management experience in luxury retail or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.
• Ability to analyze selling reports, identify business trends, and react quickly to business needs.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to lead a diverse team.
• Strong understanding of luxury fashion, trends, and visual merchandising.
• Flexibility to work demanding schedules, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds.

This Company is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against qualified applicants based on race, color, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religious creed, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, military and veteran status, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected medical condition, genetic information, reproductive health decision‑making, lawful off‑duty use of marijuana, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are a high‑growth apparel brand that designs, markets, and sells boho‑chic, vintage‑inspired women’s apparel and accessories in the U.S. and internationally through e‑commerce, retail, and wholesale channels.