Director - Liquor/Tobacco in Wasilla, Alaska at Three Bears Alaska Inc

Role Description

The Director of Liquor & Tobacco oversees the strategy and execution of adult beverage and tobacco categories across all stores. This includes purchasing, vendor management, pricing, compliance, and promotional activities. The role ensures regulatory adherence, product availability, and strong financial performance, while leading a team of Buyers and collaborating with marketing, operations, and legal teams.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strategic Purchasing & Financial Accountability
  • Develop and implement purchasing plans for liquor, wine, beer, and tobacco that align with corporate goals.
  • Negotiate supplier contracts and promotional agreements to drive profit and category growth.
  • Maintain pricing strategies that are competitive and compliant with legal requirements.
  • Evaluate new product opportunities and retire slow-moving SKUs.
  • Analyze market performance and adjust category tactics accordingly.

• Inventory Management & Product Optimization

  • Monitor inventory levels, sales trends, and plan seasonal and special event assortments.
  • Ensure timely replenishment and effective product allocation across stores.
  • Maintain accurate product availability and shelf standards.
  • Coordinate with distribution and supply chain teams to manage order flow and reduce out-of-stocks.

• Vendor Management & Compliance

  • Establish relationships with local distributors, national brands, and DSD partners.
  • Track and reconcile promotional spend, rebates, and supplier obligations.
  • Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local laws (e.g., ATF, ABC, state boards).
  • Maintain up-to-date documentation, age restriction signage, and legal SKU tracking.

• Merchandising & Marketing Execution

  • Plan and execute promotional programs, in-store events, and seasonal campaigns.
  • Collaborate with store teams and marketing to ensure execution of marketing materials and displays.
  • Respond to industry trends and customer preferences to optimize mix and presentation.
  • Maintain brand consistency and visibility within space constraints and legal parameters.

• Collaboration & Leadership

  • Lead a team of Buyers responsible for day-to-day product management.
  • Partner with store management on merchandising standards and compliance practices.
  • Provide legal and safety training support as required for in-store execution.
  • Report performance metrics to executive leadership and lead improvement initiatives.

Experience/Education:

• 7–10+ years in alcohol or tobacco retail management or buying.
• Strong knowledge of legal compliance and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with adult beverage trends, pricing, and merchandising strategy.
• Excellent negotiation, planning, and leadership skills.
• Familiarity with POS, inventory, and ERP systems.

Company Description

Three Bears Alaska is a family-owned chain of Alaskan grocery stores with so much more. We are committed to providing customers with quality goods and services at the lowest possible price. We strive to meet the needs of our customers by offering a diverse range of products and exceptional customer service. With multiple locations throughout Alaska, Three Bears Alaska, Inc. is dedicated to serving the local community and creating a positive shopping experience.

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Colonial Life Elective Benefits
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Holiday Pay

Pay Range: Starting at $105,000/annually (DOE)

Schedule:

• Full-Time
• This position may require occasional travel to supplier locations, industry conferences, and store visits.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends, to meet business needs

Office Location and Travel:

• LOCATION: In person
• Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Working Environment
Work is performed in a store setting with ability to speak and receive phone communications often. Work requires computer usage with strength, dexterity, coordination and visual acuity to use keyboard and video display terminal and other office equipment. Continuously standing, walking, reaching at/below shoulders, frequently lift/carry up to 10 pounds below waist, up to 50 pounds at waist/chest and occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This job description is intended to provide basic guidelines for meeting job requirements. Responsibilities, knowledge, skills, abilities, and working conditions may change as needs evolve.