Grooming Operations Manager
pet wantsDayton (OH)
About the role
5 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants
This is an ideal role for a multi‑unit retail leader with grooming knowledge, who wants national impact without being behind the table every day.
Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Corporate Grooming Services Manager drives the retail performance, operational excellence, safety, and growth strategy of grooming services across the Pet Wants franchise system. This leader partners closely with franchise owners to optimize the grooming business as a core retail revenue through standards, training, analytics, compliance, and customer experience.
Develop, implement, and continuously refine system‑wide grooming protocols, SOPs, and safety procedures.
Identify new grooming services, pricing strategies, and revenue opportunities to expand the grooming division.
Analyze grooming performance data to drive system‑wide growth and improvement initiatives.
Contribute to annual strategic planning, bringing insights on grooming operations, training, and market trends.
Partner closely with Brand Leadership, Operations, and Franchise Owners to ensure a consistent, high‑quality customer and pet experience.
Manage vendor relationships and source grooming supplies, tools, and products that balance quality, safety, and cost.
Evaluate and recommend new equipment, technologies, and product innovations to enhance efficiency and service quality.
Uphold the highest standards of ethical animal handling and welfare system‑wide.
Lead incident response protocols for grooming injuries or safety concerns.
Provide guidance on: Liability prevention, Incident documentation, Risk mitigation and best practices
Training, Certification & Education Design and maintain a comprehensive Grooming Training Program, including:
Lead hands‑on, classroom, and virtual training covering:
Grooming techniques
Safety & animal behavior
Customer communication
Brand‑aligned service standards
Franchise Support & Coaching Serve as the primary subject‑matter expert and point of contact for grooming operations.
Provide ongoing coaching, troubleshooting, and operational support to franchise owners.
Deliver expert guidance on:
Grooming services & workflow optimization
Product selection & equipment maintenance
Safe handling and use of grooming chemicals (including medicated baths and dips)
Ensure compliance with OSHA and all applicable safety standards.
Share ongoing industry insights, product knowledge, and service enhancements to promote continuous improvement.
What We’re Looking For:
Professional pet grooming experience and strong working knowledge of pet grooming operations
Multi‑unit retail operations or service‑based pet retail & leadership experience
Proven experience in training, auditing, and coaching grooming teams
Strong knowledge of animal handling, safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance
Experience supporting multi‑unit, franchise, or multi‑location operations (preferred)
Confident trainer, communicator, and influencer with operators and owners
Passion for the pet industry and customer experience
Seniority level Mid‑Senior level
Employment type Full‑time
Industries Retail, Veterinary Services, and Technical and Vocational Training
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Pet Wants by 2x
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