• Lead the recruitment, onboarding, and training of store associates to ensure a strong team capable of delivering excellent customer service.• Foster a positive work environment by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and addressing employee relations issues with fairness and professionalism.• Support store leadership in achieving operational goals by aligning HR strategies with business objectives.• Monitor and analyze HR metrics, including turnover, retention, and engagement, to identify trends and implement actionable solutions.• Ensure compliance with labor laws, company policies, and procedures while maintaining a safe and respectful workplace.• Coach and mentor associates to support their career development and align their growth with company objectives.• Drive the execution of company-wide HR initiatives at the store level, including talent development programs and performance management processes.

This role significantly expanded my responsibilities and provided me with a broader perspective on store operations. I oversaw the activities and operations of my assigned department, managed sales, productivity, safety, and shrink control. I also had the opportunity to manage the store during shifts as Manager on Duty. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was coaching and mentoring associates, helping them develop their skills and achieve their goals. I was also actively involved in the hiring process, completing performance management documentation, and issuing corrective actions when necessary.

This role was both challenging and fulfilling, as it involved ensuring that our stores across Mid-West Canada were sufficiently staffed during our critical spring selling season. I was responsible for sourcing, interviewing, and selecting candidates, actively engaging with them throughout the hiring process. My duties included preparing job offers, scheduling orientations, setting onboarding expectations, and building strong relationships with the retail staffing center and hiring managers. I strived to ensure consistency, efficiency, and compliance with company policies and applicable legislation.