District Manager at Kent Building Supplies

Kent Building Supplies is seeking a District Manager of Retail Store Operations to lead, develop, and elevate store performance across Northern New Brunswick. District Managers at Kent are strong operational leaders who understand the full retail landscape—people, processes, customer experience, and financial results.

KENT stores operate as several distinct yet interconnected businesses under one roof, including core retail, Pro customer sales, and Install Sales. As District Manager, you will ensure alignment, consistency, and execution across these business lines—balancing multiple revenue streams, operational priorities, and customer needs at scale. You will oversee store operations, support Store Managers, and ensure excellence in execution to achieve sales, service, and safety goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead & Develop Store Teams Coach and mentor Store Managers to elevate leadership capability, operational execution, and customer service standards.
• Drive Operational Excellence Ensure consistent execution of operational processes including inventory management, merchandising, store standards, and safety programs.
• Support Customer Experience Goals Build a culture focused on delivering exceptional service, problem-solving for customers, and strengthening community relationships.
• Monitor & Improve Performance Review key metrics for sales performance, labour planning, shrink management, safety compliance, and customer satisfaction—identifying opportunities and implementing action plans.
• Ensure Policy & Process Compliance Provide direction on operational policies, health & safety expectations, loss prevention practices, and company standards.
• Collaborate Cross‑Functionally Work closely with leaders in HR, Operations, Merchandising, and Supply Chain to address challenges and implement initiatives.
• Plan District Priorities Forecast operational needs, coordinate store priorities, support new store openings, and lead operational improvement projects.
• Act as the Primary Support for Store Managers Mentor, troubleshoot operational issues, and ensure all stores have the resources needed to succeed.

Qualifications

• 5 years of multi-unit retail leadership experience (District/Area Manager preferred)
• Bilingual French/English is required
• Proven track record improving store operations, building high‑performing teams, and driving financial results
• Strong knowledge of retail operational best practices (merchandising, inventory, labour planning, shrink, safety)
• Ability to travel regularly
• Exceptional communication skills, leadership presence, and problem‑solving capability
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; comfortable learning new systems (e.g., Power BI)

What we offer

• A safe and supportive work environment
• Wellness program
• Employee and Family Assistance Plan
• Employee discounts on home improvement products
• Medical, Dental, Vision, RRSP Matching, and PTO benefits
• Growth and development opportunities within Kent and the greater J.D. Irving, Limited organization

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.

We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.

Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.

We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

About The Team

Kent is the largest retail building supply chain in Atlantic Canada. With 48 locations and an ecommerce website, our mission is to be the best source of home improvement products through superior customer service and know-how, quality products, and everyday great prices. We protect our customers and staff by hiring and training associates committed to our safety values. We employ over 3,700 people and work hard to increase our market share through strategic investment in training and technology. We focus on the development of our people and promote a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. In addition to our retail stores, we operate truss manufacturing facilities and a wholesale drywall company. We are a member of Independent Lumber Dealers Co-operative and the ARENA buying group which ensures our great product selection and pricing