Joseph Austin
Columbia,SC
Summary
Tenured and experienced retail manager with experience in store level management and merchandising planning and execution. Experienced with managing daily store operations and team coordination. Utilizes effective communication and problem-solving to enhance customer experience. Knowledge of inventory management and staff training to ensure smooth store functionality.
Overview
42
42
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Store Leader
The Kroger Co.
Columbia, SC
11.2025 - 04.2026
- Assisted in managing daily store operations to ensure optimal efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Supported inventory management by conducting regular stock assessments and organizing merchandise displays.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain high standards of store cleanliness and organization.
- Facilitated employee training on safety protocols and customer service best practices.
Remodel Operations Manager
The Kroger Co.
Dallas, TX
11.2020 - 10.2025
- Collaborated with corporate engineering, divisional merchandisers, building contractors and store management to reset merchandise to enhance the latest food trends.
- Formulated strategic day-by-day plans for merchandise commodity movement and placement.
- Procured capital and expense fixtures to support project execution.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
Kroger Marketplace Specialist
The Kroger Co.
North Texas
02.2015 - 05.2019
- Mentored junior staff on best practices, elevating team capabilities and performance standards.
- Implemented effective merchandising strategies to maximize sales and profitability.
- Led cross-functional teams to execute merchandising strategies aligned with company goals.
Co-Manager
The Kroger Co.
Various Locations In Dallas, TX
03.2009 - 02.2015
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure compliance with company policies and safety standards.
- Facilitated training and mentorship for team members on store procedures and customer service excellence.
- Oversaw inventory levels and initiated restocking processes to ensure product availability.
Store Manager
Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Fort Worth And Frisco, Texas; Athens, Georgia
06.1999 - 03.2008
- Led daily operations to ensure exceptional customer service and store presentation
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock replenishment processes
- Trained and developed staff to enhance performance and productivity
- Implemented merchandising strategies to increase sales and improve product visibility
Merchandise Director
Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Hoffman Estates, IL
02.1997 - 09.1999
- Directed merchandise planning and assortment strategies to enhance product offerings across multiple categories.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize inventory management and reduce excess stock levels.
- Successfully drove new product categories, such as decorative housewares; and old favorites, such as Craftsman Tools to increase annual sales by 100%.
Sales Manager Thru Buyer, Assist. Store Manager
Macy's, Inc
Atlanta, GA
04.1984 - 05.1993
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring exceptional customer service and efficient task execution.
- Trained and mentored team members on sales techniques and product knowledge.
- Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Advertising & Marketing
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI12.1983
Skills
- Problem Solver-Assessment of issues and presenting possible solutions to remedy
- Process Design-Created processes for merchants to candidate products to be highlighted in high visibility locations in stores
- Process Implementation-Trained staff on implementation procedures for a new scheduling system for team members
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints and merchandising plan-o-grams
Timeline
Assistant Store Leader
The Kroger Co.
11.2025 - 04.2026
Remodel Operations Manager
The Kroger Co.
11.2020 - 10.2025
Kroger Marketplace Specialist
The Kroger Co.
02.2015 - 05.2019
Co-Manager
The Kroger Co.
03.2009 - 02.2015
Store Manager
Sears, Roebuck and Co.
06.1999 - 03.2008
Merchandise Director
Sears, Roebuck and Co.
02.1997 - 09.1999
Sales Manager Thru Buyer, Assist. Store Manager
Macy's, Inc
04.1984 - 05.1993
Bachelor of Arts - Advertising & Marketing
Michigan State University