SEAN WENDEL
Clear Lake,IA
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented retail leader with progressive leadership experience at Hy-Vee, overseeing multi-department operations including Perishable Departments, Center Store, Wine & Spirits, and Fast & Fresh. Proven success in developing and coaching department managers, driving revenue growth through strategic merchandising, and ensuring operational excellence. Recognized for a hands-on leadership style that prioritizes company goals, fosters team engagement, and consistently delivers outstanding customer experiences while optimizing overall store performance.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Store Director
Hy-Vee
Lincoln, NE
02.2026 - Current
- Developed and implemented sales strategies that improved store revenue.
- Oversaw the daily operations of over 380 employees in a fast-paced environment.
- Maintained operations in both front end and back end of facility.
- Reviewed employee performance, providing feedback and coaching that fostered performance improvement.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Researched competitive pricing strategies to enhance market position.
Assistant Store Director
Hy-Vee
Mason City, IA
12.2025 - 02.2026
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure smooth store functionality and customer satisfaction.
- Managed staff schedules and delegated tasks to optimize workforce efficiency.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Established performance standards for departments and tracked progress to ensure alignment with store goals.
- Provided guidance, support and training to staff members.
- Developed targeted marketing strategies to increase attendance at in-store events and drive promotions.
- Rearranged product displays to improve customer engagement and sales.
- Ensured compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations.
Store Operations & Perishables Manager
Hy-Vee Mason City #2
07.2023 - 12.2025
- Directed and supported department managers and employees oversaw 275 employees (Perishables, Center Store, Wine & Spirits, and Fast & Fresh. Ensuring operational alignment and sales across the store.
- Led cross-department initiatives including storewide merchandising plans, seasonal displays, and promotional execution to maximize sales impact.
- Built and maintained vendor relationships to negotiate pricing secure promotional opportunities, and ensuring merchandising compliance.
- Mentored, coached, managed, and developed management staff through ongoing training, performance feedback, and succession planning.
- Researched competitive markets to inform pricing, assortment, and promotional strategies.
- Oversaw inventory management, pricing integrity, and sales.
- Oversaw inventory tapes, cycle count teams, and budgeting.
- Professional Development
- Completed Hy-Vee Principles of Retail Operations (PRO) and Dale Carnegie Leadership Training; currently advancing through Hy-Vee Master’s of Retail Operations (MRO) and Korn Ferry Leadership Development.
Service Manager
Hy-Vee Ankeny Iowa
Ankeny, Iowa
01.2023 - 07.2023
- Manage 200(+) employees and provide leadership fostering accountability, engagement, and high performance.
- Direct execution of end caps, aisle resets, and promotional displays to drive customers engagement and sales growth.
- Allocate responsibilities and delegate ensuring operational excellence.
- Manage both front and back operations, ensuring seamless coordination between customer service and logistical functions.
Clear Lake Boats Associate
Clear Lake Boats
06.2017 - 08.2022
- Delivered exceptional customer service by assisting new and returning clientele with boat sales, rentals, merchandise and services.
- Supported operations by installing boat covers and lifts while ensuring proper maintenance and customer satisfaction.
- Operated boats for demonstrations and transportation showcasing product knowledge.
- Utilized heavy equipment including skid loaders, forklifts, tractors, and truck/trailers to support logistics and marina operations.
Education
Bachelors of Communications - Coaching
University of Northern Iowa
01.2022
Skills
- Management
- Leadership
- Strategic planning
- Problem Solving
- Productivity
- Teamwork
- Interpersonal communication
- Ownership
- Flexible
Timeline
Assistant Store Director
Hy-Vee
02.2026 - Current
Assistant Store Director
Hy-Vee
12.2025 - 02.2026
Store Operations & Perishables Manager
Hy-Vee Mason City #2
07.2023 - 12.2025
Service Manager
Hy-Vee Ankeny Iowa
01.2023 - 07.2023
Clear Lake Boats Associate
Clear Lake Boats
06.2017 - 08.2022
Bachelors of Communications - Coaching
University of Northern Iowa