Operations Specialist-Cannabis Retail

Operations Specialist Job Description

Department:
Retail Operations

Reports To:

Retail Operations Leadership
Classification:
Exempt
Travel:
Frequent travel to assigned store locations

The Operations Specialist drives operational excellence, efficiency, standardization, and consistent execution across assigned retail locations.

This is a hands-on role responsible for identifying operational gaps, improving processes, conducting operational audits, supporting implementation of new initiatives, developing and updating operational SOPs, and providing targeted support to stores.

The Operations Specialist supplements regional and store leadership by providing focused operational expertise. The position does not function as a second Regional Manager and does not replace General Manager accountability for store performance.

• Conduct regular operational audits of continuous-upkeep items, recurring operational forms, processes, and store standards.
• Complete White Glove Audits for assigned stores and identify actionable opportunities for improvement.
• Analyze operational gaps, determine root causes, and implement practical process improvements.
• Develop, update, and maintain state-specific operational SOPs with an emphasis on efficiency, consistency, and standardization.
• Lead hands-on implementation of new operational initiatives, processes, and procedures.
• Provide in-person operational training associated with new processes, systems, or identified store challenges.
• Support General Managers with training resources and follow-up when an operational training gap remains after initial manager documentation, coaching, or corrective action.
• Support systems and process rollouts and drive consistent adoption across locations.
• Partner with Accounting and Marketing during new-vendor launches to ensure required operational information and training materials reach store teams.
• Serve as a point person for regional Inventory Leads.
• Facilitate biweekly inventory calls and lead inventory-process improvement initiatives.
• Analyze inventory workflows and implement improvements designed to strengthen accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.
• Lead and support drive-thru efficiency initiatives, including workflow, wait times, layout, menus, and process optimization.
• Support operational readiness and preparation for new store openings.
• Provide targeted support to Regional Managers during defined operational needs, including store deployment, issue resolution, special projects, and temporary coverage.
• Drive cross-store consistency and adoption of operational best practices.
• Complete defined projects assigned by regional or retail leadership and report measurable outcomes.
• Monitor adoption following implementation and identify areas requiring additional follow-up.

The Operations Specialist owns operational analysis, implementation, process improvement, and standardization within assigned projects.

• Does not own overall regional revenue performance.
• Does not replace the General Manager as the accountable leader of an individual store.
• Does not assume Regional Manager responsibility for GM performance management.
• Does not own regulatory relationships, licensing, formal regulatory responses, or compliance-specific audit responsibilities.
• May diagnose and improve processes contributing to a performance problem, while the Regional Manager and General Manager remain accountable for the ultimate business result.
• Provides operational implementation training, while broader customer-experience curriculum and formal training programs remain the responsibility of the National Trainer.

• Completion, timeliness, and quality of operational audits
• Successful…