Retail & Business Development Manager

Overview

CORT is seeking a full‑time Outlet Center Manager in Carol Stream, IL. The Retail & Business Development Manager will oversee the day‑to‑day sales and operations of a CORT Outlet Center and personally own the outside sales effort to drive more traffic to the Outlet. This role is responsible for driving sales, maintaining inventory flow, merchandising the showroom, and ensuring operational efficiency.

A variety of sales initiatives from networking, prospecting and introductory presentations to calls with existing customers to build rapport and develop new business opportunities are involved with this position. The Outlet Manager develops and executes strategic marketing and revenue plans, fosters strong customer relationships, and aligns outlet performance with broader business goals to support organizational growth. This position will include outside sales, driving your own vehicle.

$65,000-$70,000 per year plus commission.

Monday‑Friday and occasional Saturdays.

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) available on the first of the month after your hire date
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Paid vacation, sick days, and holidays
• Company‑paid disability and life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee discounts and perks
• Career growth and mentorship opportunities

• Team Leadership & Management:
  Manage, coach, and motivate Outlet Sales Associates and Retail Stock Clerks, fostering a collaborative and high‑performing team environment.
• Sales & Revenue Generation:
  Drive sales of previously leased and new furniture. Spend 50% in‑store and 50% outside the Outlet, prospecting, meeting customers and developing new business. Consistently achieve monthly, quarterly, and yearly sales goals, and maintain margin targets for both new and used inventory.
• Showroom Merchandising & Presentation:
  Oversee the merchandising, pricing, and presentation of the showroom floor to maximize product appeal and sales opportunities.
• Inventory Control & Management:
  Minimize idle inventory, manage product transfers, and conduct inventory age analysis to optimize stock levels and warehouse space.
• Operational Efficiency:
  Manage costs related to logistics, overtime, purchase orders, and supplies; ensure a clean, safe, and organized warehouse and showroom environment.
• Customer Service Excellence:
  Resolve customer complaints, ensure customer satisfaction and retention, and build lasting relationships with repeat customers.
• Marketing & Promotion:
  Develop and implement online sales strategies (e.g., Facebook Marketplace), create and execute marketing campaigns, and meet with vendors for product acquisition.
• Administrative Duties:
  Manage staffing, time records, product purchase orders, store supplies, and high‑level quotes; maintain accurate records and reports.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with internal departments (Operations, IT, HR, Customer Service, Admin) and external partners (vendors, distribution teams) to support outlet operations and business objectives.
• Other Duties as Assigned:
  Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as required to support outlet operations and achieve business objectives.

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required;
  Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 5 years of retail experience in furniture or related field
• 3 years of supervisory or management experience preferred
• Minimum 3 years outside B2B sales experience
• Prospecting and networking experience
• Successfully meets/exceeds goals
• Valid state driver’s license

CORT, a part of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, is the nation’s leading provider of transition services, including furniture rental for home and office, event furnishings, destination services, apartment locating, touring and other services. With more than 100 offices, showrooms and clearance centers across the United States, operations in the United Kingdom and partners in more than 80 countries around the world, no other furniture rental company can match CORT’s breadth of services.

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis; there is no set Final date to receive applications to this position. When it is determined that new applications will no longer be accepted, due to the positions being filled or a high volume of applicants has been received, this job advertisement will be removed.