Operations Manager in Training – Entry Level

Job Description

Operations Manager in Training – Entry Level | The Catalyst Corporation

The Tone:
This is an entry-level opportunity for an Operations Manager in Training with The Catalyst Corporation, located in Oak Brook, IL. The company is experiencing growth and seeking a dedicated individual to contribute to its expanding team. The Catalyst Corporation specializes in developing and executing retail campaigns for clients, focusing on customer engagement and brand representation. This role is specifically designed for individuals aspiring to build comprehensive experience across key business functions, including sales, marketing, team leadership, and day-to-day operational management. It offers a structured environment for learning and development, where you can gain hands-on experience and cultivate the skills essential for future leadership within the organization.

The TL;DR
• Role: Early Career
• Location: In-person, Oak Brook, IL

• Team: Works within a team structure, reporting to management.
• Mission: To learn client retail campaigns from the ground up, including customer engagement, sales, brand representation, and performance tracking, ultimately preparing for increased leadership and operational responsibilities.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Client Representation: Represent client products and services with professionalism and enthusiasm in a face-to-face retail environment, ensuring effective brand messaging.
• Customer Engagement & Sales: Engage directly with customers to explain current products, services, and promotions, guiding them seamlessly through the sales and enrollment process.
• Operational Learning & Application: Master daily sales, marketing, and operational procedures, applying learned techniques to optimize campaign performance.
• Performance Monitoring & Analysis: Track individual and team performance goals diligently, contributing insights and data essential for strategic adjustments and success.
• Leadership Development & Team Support: Assist in the training and ongoing support of newer team members, while actively developing personal leadership, communication, and team management skills through practical application and mentorship.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Entry-Level role. Ideal candidates will have a foundational interest in pursuing a career path that encompasses sales, marketing, management, and general business operations.
• Experience: This position welcomes individuals with no prior experience, offering comprehensive hands-on training. Any previous experience in customer service, sales, or retail environments is a valuable asset but not a prerequisite.
• Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for effective customer interaction; a consistently positive, professional, and motivated attitude; comfort and confidence in working directly with diverse customers in a dynamic retail setting; a coachable mindset and a genuine willingness to learn and adapt; demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Bonus: An expressed interest in sales, marketing, management, or broader business operations, indicating alignment with the role’s developmental trajectory.