Beer and Wine Manager

About Central Market

Central Market is a specialty grocery that started in Austin, Texas in 1994, and has grown to multiple locations across the state. What makes Central Market one of the freshest markets in the country - Try a sumptuous selection of everything edible, for starters. We go straight to the source to bring you the finest food and drink the world has to offer. With hundreds of cheeses, thousands of wines, acres of produce, and aisles of experts, Central Market is a foodie’s wonderland. Our commitment beyond the plate is another reason we’re a cut above. We believe food is a way of uniting families and communities, of preserving cultures, and of starting new traditions. Each of our stores is a market in the truest sense and is a place to exchange goods, services, and ideas for those really into food.

Job Summary

The Beer and Wine Manager is responsible for overseeing the store's Beer & Wine Department, ensuring a safe and productive work environment, and driving sales and profitability. This role involves managing staff, inventory, merchandising, customer service, and adherence to all company and government regulations.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions

• Manage the Beer & Wine Department, including staff, inventory, merchandising, and financial performance.
• Ensure a safe work environment, including interviewing, training, developing, and appraising staff.
• Provide excellent customer service and educate customers on products through sampling, demos, and classes.
• Manage department budget, payroll, product ordering, and shrink control.
• Achieve sales and gross profit goals through effective planning, merchandising, and cost management.
• Ensure compliance with all government and company regulations for product freshness, safety, and sanitation.
• Design and execute merchandising programs and promote store events.
• Build relationships with customers and foster a positive team environment.

Qualifications & Key Requirements

• Proven leadership experience with multiple direct reports (1+ years required).
• Background in beer & wine management required.
• Extensive knowledge of wines and beers, including production, varietals, flavor profiles, pairings, and storage.
• Knowledge of humidor storage and display preferred.
• Ability to delegate, organize, and plan effectively.
• Thorough understanding of retail accounting.
• Excellent customer service, communication, and organization skills.
• Proficiency on HEB systems (XPTR, IMS, CICS2) preferred.
• Ability to maintain an efficient operation, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, and supervise/train staff.
• Ability to maintain sanitation standards.
• Cigar knowledge is preferred.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Must be able to function in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, reach, kneel, squat, and reach overhead and side to side throughout the shift.
• Must possess hand/finger dexterity.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including opening, closing, and weekend shifts.

Key Skills/Competency

• Beer and Wine Management
• Leadership
• Inventory Control
• Customer Service
• Merchandising
• Sales Goal Achievement
• Staff Training and Development
• Retail Operations
• Budget Management
• Food Pairing