DescriptionAs a District Sales Manager, you will lead the performance and growth of a dynamic district of 14-22 photography studios, driving results across operations, sales, and customer experience. In this highly visible leadership role, you'll shape strategy and execution to deliver strong performance in sessions, sales, customer satisfaction, photography quality, and profitability. You'll build, coach, and inspire a team of managers and 60-150 team members (plus seasonal staff), fostering a culture of accountability, development, and results. With a focus on operational excellence, you'll ensure consistent execution of company standards while acting as a trusted leader and ambassador for Lifetouch, always prioritizing a safe, positive experience for every customer we serve.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities- Drive District Performance
- Achieve profitable growth by increasing sessions, sales, and market share.
- Execute local marketing and sales strategies to grow the business.
- Analyze performance reporting and implement studio-specific action plans.
- Manage district expenses, including labor and supplies.
- Ensure Operational & Service Excellence
- Maintain high photography standards and ensure studios meet company quality expectations.
- Deliver and model exceptional customer service to drive retention and referrals.
- Resolve customer concerns promptly and coach teams on service recovery.
- Execute key business processes (studio visits, sales practices, performance management) per company standards.
- Ensure timely completion of administrative and compliance requirements.
- Lead & Develop Teams
- Manage and lead a team of 2+ full-time employees.
- Set clear expectations, provide coaching, feedback, and recognition.
- Monitor individual and team performance to drive results.
- Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and high performance.
- Build Partnerships
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with host store management.
- Collaborate with the Regional Sales Director on field execution strategies.
- Protect Company Standards
- Safeguard all customer, employee, and company information, ensuring confidentiality at all times.
Minimum Requirements- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
- 4-7 years of management experience in retail, photography, or service industries; multi-unit leadership (2+ years) preferred.
- Proven track record of driving sales growth and achieving business results.
- Experience managing expenses and operating within a budget.
- Strong analytical skills with experience interpreting and reporting performance data.
- Experience leading direct and indirect teams in a cross-functional environment.
- Experience managing partnerships or working with host store partners preferred.
- Must reside within district boundaries; willingness to travel up to 80%.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel).
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and take accountability for results.
- Strong leadership and influencing skills.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and project management abilities.
- Detail-oriented with strong follow-through.
- Effective critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple competing priorities.
- Adaptable with the ability to lead through change.
- Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and initiative.
Physical Requirements- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and move regularly throughout the workday.
- Capable of assembling/disassembling equipment and performing repetitive tasks.
- Ability to lift up to 5 lbs frequently and up to 10 lbs occasionally.
The compensation package for this role is based on multiple factors, such as job level, responsibilities, location, and candidate experience. The base pay ranges included below are specific to the locations listed, and may not be applicable to other locations.
Illinois: [$90,000-$107,750]
This position will accept applications on an ongoing basis until filled.
