Vending Operations Manager

Job Summary:

Are you ready to lead our esteemed 80-store laundromat chain on a transformative journey that will shape the future of our vending machine operations? We're on the lookout for a dynamic and visionary leader to spearhead a groundbreaking initiative to bring our vending machine operations in-house and redefine the future of convenience in the laundry industry!

The Vending Operations Manager is crucial for our laundromat chain's expansion, requiring strong financial acumen and direct involvement in building opportunities in vending that are aligned with our goals and customers. This role also involves making strategic financial decisions and contributing significantly to the overall financial health of the company. The successful candidate must have the willingness and ability to holistically operate the business, navigating challenges to foster success.

Tasked with actively interacting with and contributing to the owner’s vision for substantial business expansion, the Vending Operations Manager’s hands-on involvement will be integral in order to architect and implement a blueprint to build a $20 million business from the ground up within two years. This dynamic position requires proactive decision-making, strategic financial management, and a comprehensive, engaged approach to drive rapid growth within the laundromat industry.

In summary, the ideal candidate is one with a unique blend of being able to navigate ambiguity, financial expertise, direct operational involvement, and an understanding of business dynamics.

1. Innovative Environment: Be part of a forward-thinking company that embraces innovation and sets industry trends.
2. Leadership Position: Join an organization that holds the top spot in the laundromat industry, providing you with a unique opportunity to lead and shape the future.
3. Rapid Growth: Contribute to our company's expansion as we continue to open new stores, offering a dynamic and challenging work environment.
4. Commitment to Excellence: Work for a company recognized as the gold standard in the industry, where quality and customer satisfaction are paramount.
5. Exciting Pilot Program: We already have a pilot underway, introducing hot food offerings, and initial results from select stores show strong Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) with sales exceeding $100,000.
6. Professional Development: Take advantage of ongoing learning opportunities and career advancement within our rapidly growing organization.

About the Company:

Laundry Capital, together with its affiliated companies, is the largest operator of retail Laundromats in the United States. Operating under the Clean Rite Centers and Laundromax brand names, the company operates over 80 locations across the country, including 45 in the outer boroughs of New York City, with an additional 10 stores in development across the country. In addition to self-serve washers and dryers, retail stores also offer wash-dry-fold service. The company is headquartered in Rego Park, NY.

Founded in New York City in 1996, the company has developed over 250 laundromats, pioneering the "super store" concept with large, bright, free-standing stores typically over 4k square feet, ample seating, folding tables, and more. This rapidly growing company has a team that fosters a culture of innovation, teamwork, and drive.

Essential Job Functions:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for implementing in-house Vending Operations across our chain of 80 stores, maintaining the gold standard of our industry.
• Identify profitable vending opportunities aligned with our business goals and customer preferences within the largest laundromat chain in North America.
• Collaborate with suppliers and negotiate contracts to ensure cost-effective and high-quality vending products, reflecting our commitment to excellence.
• Oversee the installation and maintenance of vending machines, ensuring they meet operational standards in our rapidly expanding company.
• Establish initiative KPIs in order to optimize product selection, pricing, and overall vending performance, contributing to our leadership position in the industry.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing and finance, to integrate vending seamlessly into our operations and support strong leadership.
• Implement and enforce operational protocols, including inventory management and maintenance schedules, upholding our company's reputation.
• Train store staff on vending procedures and troubleshooting, ensuring seamless integration with existing operations in a dynamic and growth-focused environment.
• Stay updated on industry trends and technology to continuously enhance the vending program, keeping us at the forefront of innovation.
• Prepare regular reports on vending performance for senior management, showcasing our commitment to transparency and accountability.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in project management and implementation of vending or retail initiatives.
• Ability to operate in a structure that is not well-defined and build out standard operating procedures.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret sales data and make data-driven decisions.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.
• Familiarity with the retail and laundromat industry is a plus.
• Available to travel on a regular basis to all markets.
• Ability to create and execute clear operational systems.