Mercado Manager

Job Summary: The responsibilities of the Mercado Manager are insuring that the business and social goals of Esperanza’s economic development project, Mercado La Paloma, are met. The goal of the Mercado Manager is to strengthen the health and long-term sustainability of the Mercado by adeptly understanding business planning and management, including effectively developing relationships among the Mercado’s business owners, nonprofit organizations, contractors, government officials, educational institutions, media, local groups, and community residents. This specifically includes being responsive to needs and preferences of Mercado vendors, nonprofit organizations, employees, and patrons. 

Duties:

·        Day-to-day management of the business operation

·        Perform on-going occupant leasing, recruitment, and screening

·        Work with vendors to improve operating policies for the Mercado

·        Analyze feasibility, benefits, and coordination of big events at the Mercado

·        Contact with Architects, Engineers, and General Contractors regarding maintenance and improvements of the building

·        Responsible for permits, licenses, taxes, and insurance

·        Develop and coordinate a robust marketing plan including press releases/ads and updating the Mercado’s Calendar of Events to elevate the Mercado’s visibility and reputation in the community

·        Manage the financial aspects of the project, including budgeting and reporting

·        Establish and manage relationships with large institutional purchasers and suppliers

·        Oversee vendor compliance with established merchandise mix, display, customer service, operating policies, as well as insurance and licensing requirements

·        Manage security, maintenance, and other Mercado staff

·        Develop and coordinate vendor assistance programs including business assistance relating to design, merchandising, finance, expansion planning, management, and product mix

·        Participate in on-going evaluation and continuous improvement of the Mercado operations

·        Work in any other projects that might have an impact on the Mercado, within Esperanza or external institutions

Required Qualifications and Skills:

·        Work experience in small business development and operations and/or community development

·        Excellent organizational and management skills

·        Skilled problem-solver and mediator

·        Strong capacity to plan, organize and evaluate programs and activities

·        Experience with budgets and financial statements

·        Extremely reliable, responsible and mature

·        College and/or graduate degree preferred, especially in the areas of business administration, urban planning, or other related field

·        Bilingual (English and Spanish) preferred