Assistant Store Manager - Back-end Ops

Overview

At KENT, we believe our success is driven by strong, people‑focused leadership and operational excellence. Each retail location operates as a complex, multi‑unit business designed to serve a wide range of customer needs. In addition to our core home improvement retail operation, our stores support a Pro‑focused business and deliver Install Sales solutions, all of which rely heavily on efficient, well‑executed back‑end operations.

Assistant Store Manager – Back‑End Operations — a hands‑on leadership role responsible for safe, efficient, and accurate operational execution across building materials yard, shipping, order picking, inventory integrity, and, where applicable, fleet operations. This role directly impacts customer experience, sales execution, and store profitability and requires collaboration with front‑end teams to run the store as one high‑performing business.

• Overseeing back‑end operations: lead the building materials yard, shipping, and order‑picking functions to support store‑wide execution and customer fulfillment.
• Managing inventory integrity and shrink: ensure accurate inventory counts, loss prevention practices, and strong controls across back‑end areas.
• Maintaining yard standards and safety: ensure the yard and back‑end work spaces are organized, compliant, and safe for associates and customers.
• Driving operational support for sales: partner with front‑end leadership to support lumber, building materials, Pro, and Install Sales execution through accurate product availability and timely fulfillment.
• Analyzing performance: review sales, operational, and inventory data to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, service levels, and profitability.
• Managing fleet operations (where applicable): oversee delivery operations to ensure timely, efficient service aligned with customer expectations.
• Developing and engaging teams: coach, train, and support associates through regular check‑ins, feedback, and development conversations.
• Using systems effectively: leverage Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook), Kronos for timekeeping, and D365 for inventory, sales, and operational tracking.

• 5+ years experience in retail management
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
• Exceptional customer service skills
• Ability to leverage technology for project management, analysis, and solving problems (including Microsoft Office Suite)
• Openness to continuous improvement and responsibility for independent learning
• Flexible schedule based on retail needs
• Shrink and inventory control
• 21+ years of age due to forklift training requirement (in‑house training provided); previous forklift experience is an asset

• Wellness Program
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Employee Discounts
• Medical, Dental, Vision, RRSP Matching, and PTO benefits
• Growth and development opportunities within KENT and the greater J.D. Irving, Limited organization

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada and the USA. We are a team of professionals dedicated to integrity, results, and inclusive work environments. We are committed to accessibility and encourage candidates to discuss accommodation needs at any stage of the application process.