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 strong Pro‑focused business and deliver Install Sales solutions, all of which rely heavily on efficient, well‑executed back‑end operations.
As an Assistant Store Manager – Back‑End Operations, you will play a critical leadership role in ensuring these business lines are supported through safe, efficient, and accurate operational execution. This includes oversight of the building materials yard, shipping, order picking, inventory integrity, and (where applicable) fleet operations. Your leadership directly impacts customer experience, sales execution, and profitability across the store.
This is a hands‑on leadership role that requires the ability to manage complexity, balance competing priorities, and collaborate closely with front‑end leaders to ensure the entire store operates as one aligned, high‑performing business. Success depends on strong people leadership, attention to detail, and the ability to drive results across multiple revenue streams while maintaining high safety and operational standards.
This position offers a competitive salary with eligibility for annual bonus incentives.
Responsibilities
As an Assistant Store Manager – Back‑End Operations, you will ensure the foundational systems and teams that support Retail, Pro, and Install Sales operate safely, efficiently, and consistently. Key responsibilities include:
- 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 workspaces are organized, compliant, and safe for both 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.
Qualifications
- 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 the forklift training requirement (in-house to be provided), previous forklift
experience is considered an asset
What we Offer
- Wellness Program
- Employee and Family Assistance Plan
- Employee Discounts
- Medical, Dental, Vision, RRSP Matching, and PTO benefits
- Growth and development opportunities through KENT and the greater J.D. Irving, Limited organization
Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.
We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.
Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.
Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know-how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co-operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing
