Store Manager

Position Summary

A Japanese retail and food marketplace company is seeking a bilingual Store Manager to support the launch of its first U.S. location in Southern California. This is a unique startup opportunity that combines business development, vendor partnership management, store operations, and talent acquisition. The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing local producer relationships and supporting the expansion of a growing retail concept in the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain relationships with local farmers, food producers, and specialty vendors.
• Identify and onboard new suppliers to expand product offerings and support business growth.
• Assist with the launch and setup of new retail locations, including store opening preparations.
• Recruit, onboard, and support store employees as the business grows.
• Coordinate day-to-day store operations to ensure efficient and high-quality customer service.
• Work closely with headquarters and external partners to support business development initiatives.
• Support community outreach and local networking efforts to build brand awareness.
• Assist with various startup-related projects and operational tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• Native-level Japanese and business-level English communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Comfortable working in a startup or entrepreneurial environment with changing priorities.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Interest in food, retail, agriculture, farmers markets, or community-based businesses.
• Ability to travel within Southern California for vendor visits and business development activities.
• Prior retail, sales, operations, hospitality, food industry, or business development experience is a plus, but not required.

SALARY

USD 60,000 - 80,000 (DOE)

LOCATION

Ventura / Oxnard Area, CA (Onsite )

POSITION TYPE

• Full-time
• Startup / New Business Launch Opportunity