JOB OVERVIEW

Milk Bar is looking for a VP of Retail to support its growth and expansion. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the VP of Retail will oversee the strategy, operations, and development of the Retail bakery business. The company has high ambitions to open new units in the coming years through franchised, company-owned, and/or licensed bakeries. With this in mind, the VP of Retail will develop the growth strategy, put in the processes and procedures necessary to successfully open and operate new units, provide leadership to the team in the field that runs the units, and serve as a key member of the leadership team at Milk Bar.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Planning & Execution:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive growth strategy to expand Milk Bar's retail footprint and penetrate new markets effectively.

• Create and execute a plan to drive same-store sales growth, utilizing data analysis, marketing initiatives, and product innovation.

• Implement company strategies by coaching and supporting store management teams, ensuring strong adoption of company objectives and vision.

• Analyze financial and strategic levers to identify trends and opportunities, developing strategic action plans in partnership with the Finance team. Lead the weekly, monthly, and annual planning and re-forecasting processes for retail storefronts, ensuring that company goals are exceeded consistently.

• Successfully manage existing partner store relationships and onboard new partner stores, including overseeing adherence to Milk Bar brand standards and fostering stronger connectedness with company-owned locations, ensuring excellence in critical supply chain and operational processes, and negotiating favorable economics that position each relationship for financial success.

• Evaluate the financial investments needed for implementing new technologies or making store improvements, and assess the expected returns on these investments.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and product development teams to align retail initiatives with overall company goals and objectives.

• Lead internal and external teams in new and existing store design processes, leveraging professional services and evolving strategies to involve necessary parties and drive project success (schedule, budget, etc).

Customer Experience & Brand Management:

• Cultivate elite customer experience by ensuring delicious products and exceptional hospitality are at the forefront of every interaction, fostering customer loyalty and satisfaction.

• Serve as a brand ambassador, both internally and externally, embodying our core values, inspiring celebration, and creating real magic.

Financial & Operational Management:

• Manage and deliver P&L outcomes for the retail channel, delivering revenue targets and optimizing profitability while maintaining operational excellence.

• Establish and maintain vendor relationships to ensure the consistent supply of high-quality ingredients and materials, negotiating favorable terms to support profitability goals.

Market Research & Adaptation:

• Utilize market research and consumer insights to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the retail landscape, adapting strategies accordingly to stay ahead of the competition.

• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and customer feedback to inform strategic decision-making and drive continuous improvement in Milk Bar's retail operations.

Talent Management & Development:

• Develop and implement staffing strategies to build an elite team of retail professionals who prioritize product deliciousness, customer experience, and consistent execution, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

• Set clear expectations and provide ongoing feedback and development opportunities for individuals throughout the retail ops function.

• Ensure effective engagement with fellow leadership and consistent flow of information in both directions, reinforcing a culture of collaboration, trust, and open communication.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

• Must be based in the NYC Metropolitan area!

• Proven experience in retail management, with a focus on strategy development and P&L management.

• Strong leadership skills with a track record of building and managing high-performing teams.

• Excellent understanding of market trends and consumer behavior in the retail space.

• Ability to develop and execute innovative retail strategies.

• Strong negotiation skills and experience in selecting and developing retail locations.

• Passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Milk Bar offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a dynamic work environment. The compensation for this position ranges from $175,000 to $225,000, dependent on experience. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, generous paid time off, employee discounts, commuter benefits, gym membership discounts, paid parental leave, and more. Join us and be part of a team that brings joy and nostalgia to customers through innovative and delicious desserts.

Work Authorization: At this time, Milk Bar is only considering candidates legally authorized to work in the united states. we participate with e- verify™ and will provide the federal government with your form i-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the u.s. employers can only use e-verify™ once you have accepted a job offer and completed the form i-9.

EEO Statement: Milk Bar is an equal opportunity employer and shall treat all applicants for employment equally based upon job-related qualifications and without regards to race, color, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, marital status, military or veteran status, national origin, disability, religion, political activity, lawful tobacco use while off-duty, or any other characteristic protected by law.