Assistant Store Manager - Costa Mesa

Maison Polène

Founded in 2016, Polène is a French leather goods brand that distinguishes itself through outstanding artisanal craftsmanship, producing timeless pieces with organic designs inspired directly by nature. As we continue to experience significant growth and international expansion, 2026 marks an exciting chapter: we are building a strong, expert team to drive Polène’s excellence at every organizational level. Our artistic and creative spirit elevates both our handbag and jewelry collections, supported by 800 artisans in our Ubrique, Spain workshops.

Be a part of the Polène story—join us in our South Coast Plaza boutique and help us deliver an unforgettable journey at the heart of our brand, where a passionate team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer experiences.

About the Role

Polène boutiques immerse clients in our unique universe, attracting a high-end, international clientele. As Assistant Store Manager, you will support the Store Manager in leading the boutique, ensuring exceptional customer experiences while driving commercial performance and operational excellence.

Our South Coast Plaza location requires experienced retail leaders who thrive in luxury environments and who are passionate about team development, client engagement, and delivering memorable experiences for discerning customers.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development

• Support the Store Manager in driving sales performance and achieving store revenue targets.

• Represent Polène’s excellence and promote the brand’s products and craftsmanship on the sales floor.

• Deliver and maintain an exceptional customer experience that reflects Polène’s luxury standards.

• Support the development of long-term client relationships and clienteling initiatives.

• Assist in implementing CRM best practices to strengthen customer loyalty.

• Identify opportunities to grow the client base and enhance in-store engagement.

Store Management

• Support daily store operations and ensure adherence to company policies and procedures.

• Collaborate with headquarters teams to maintain operational and strategic excellence in-store.

• Assist with stock management in coordination with the stock team and Procurement Officer.

• Support customer service processes including repairs, warranties, returns, and exchanges.

• Ensure the boutique maintains exceptional visual merchandising and presentation standards.

Team Management

• Lead by example on the sales floor and embody the values of Maison Polène.

• Support coaching and development of the boutique team.

• Assist with staff scheduling and ensure appropriate sales floor coverage.

• Participate in recruiting, onboarding, and training new employees.

• Support daily team briefings and help motivate the team to achieve store goals.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 3–5 years of retail leadership experience, preferably with a luxury brand.

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

• Demonstrated abilities in sales performance management and client development.

• Passion for delivering elevated customer experiences.

• Excellent organizational and communication skills.

• Fluent in English; additional language skills are a plus.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary range $66,500–$72,800, plus bonus incentive.

• Monthly ICHRA medical stipend, allowing employees to choose the plan that works best for them.

• Dental & vision insurance with employer contributions.

• 401(k) plan.

• Monthly + quarterly performance bonuses.

• Paid Time Off, including vacation and sick time.

• Employee discount on our full range of leather goods and jewelry.

• Commuter benefits, for transit (pre-tax, where applicable).

• Opportunities for growth within our expanding U.S. retail network.

• A supportive, inclusive culture rooted in craftsmanship, creativity, and teamwork.

If you’re passionate about luxury leather goods, team leadership, and performance, apply now and help define the next chapter of Polène in Costa Mesa!

Polène is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful workplace, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other protected characteristic as defined by law.