Store Manager – Xwchíyò:m Farm Market (CEI)

Store Manager – Xwchíyò:m Farm Market (CEI)

Location: Cheam First Nation, Rosedale, British Columbia
Position Start Date: October 1, 2025
Store Opening Date: December 1, 2025
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

About Xwchíyò:m Farm Market

Xwchíyò:m Farm Market is a new retail and distribution hub located at Cheam First Nation. As a revitalized community store, the market will feature:

  • Organic vegetables, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and fresh eggs from Cheam Farms and local farms
  • Fresh, locally harvested seafood.
  • Indigenous-made crafts, artisan goods, and packaged products.
  • Multi-channel distribution to local restaurants and retailers.

Our vision is to create a community-driven marketplace that celebrates Indigenous entrepreneurship & supports local employment

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Store Manager to lead the opening and daily operations of Xwchíyò:m Farm Market. This individual will be responsible for setting up the store from the ground up, sourcing quality products, and establishing efficient retail systems.

The Store Manager will play a key role in building strong relationships with Indigenous artisans, local farmers, and suppliers, while ensuring the market reflects the values of authenticity, sustainability, and community impact.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Opening (October–November 2025):

  • Lead store setup, including layout, shelving, refrigeration, displays, and merchandising.
  • Work with contractors on final renovations and fixtures.
  • Develop sourcing strategy for produce, seafood, crafts, and packaged goods.
  • Build relationships with local Indigenous artisans, food producers, and distributors.
  • Recruit, train, and coordinate a high-performing team to ensure excellent service and efficient operations.
  • Establish POS (point-of-sale) systems, accounting procedures, and operating policies.

Ongoing Operations (December 2025 and beyond):

  • Manage daily store operations (10:00 am – 6:00 pm, 6 days per week).
  • Oversee ordering, receiving, stocking, and inventory management.
  • Ensure exceptional customer service with a focus on local and Indigenous identity.
  • Coordinate with Cheam Farms to showcase farm-grown products.
  • Monitor financial performance, track sales, and report to leadership.
  • Develop marketing initiatives (local signage, community promotions, events).
  • Maintain health & safety standards and ensure regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

  • Proven experience in retail store management, ideally in grocery, farm market, or specialty foods.
  • Demonstrated experience setting up a new store (layout, sourcing, vendor contracts).
  • Strong knowledge of local and sustainable food systems.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
  • Ability to manage budgets, staffing, and sales targets.
  • Commitment to Indigenous community values and economic development.
  • Must be available to start by October 1, 2025.

Assets

  • Indigenous heritage and/or strong connections to Indigenous communities.
  • Experience sourcing and showcasing Indigenous-made products.
  • Knowledge of regenerative farming, organic foods, and cultural foods.
  • Marketing and community engagement experience.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience.
  • Benefits package to be discussed at the interview stage.
  • Opportunity to play a leadership role in a high-profile community initiative.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are passionate about leading the Xwchíyò:m Farm Market. Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.

Applications can be sent to: [email protected]
Deadline: September 15, 2025

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