AUSL Retail Operations Manager

Named one of Sports Business Journal's Best Places to Work in Sports (2024, 2025), Front Office Sports' Most Impactful Sports Organizations (2024), and Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies (2023), Athletes Unlimited owns and operates professional women's softball, volleyball, and basketball leagues featuring world-class competition and fan experience. Athletes Unlimited stands out as an organization driven by the athletes that play in the leagues, with athlete representation on the company's board of directors, each league led by a Player Executive Committee, and players sharing in long-term profits of the company, all while being proactive in shaping policies supporting the women that play in the league. Athletes Unlimited is the first professional sports league to be organized as a Public Benefit Corporation. For more information, visit AUProSports.com.In June 2025, AU transformed and expanded its softball business by launching the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL), a premier professional women's softball league. In 2026, additional teams have been added, converting to a fully city-based model, bringing in team owners, and building out ancillary business, fan and partner engagement opportunities.Athletes Unlimited Softball League is looking for a Retail Operations Manager to lead on-the-ground execution of AU Pro Shop pop-ups and retail activations across league events. This position is a hands-on, travel-heavy role focused on store setup, merchandising, staff leadership, and in-person fan experience. The role is contract, part time, and reports to the VP, E-comm & Retail Ops. This role will take place from June through August.ResponsibilitiesRetail Operations & Event Execution (Primary Focus)Oversee day-to-day operations of pop-up shops at eventsLead setup and teardown for each locationEnsure clean, organized, high-performing retail environmentsManage inventory flow, restocks, transfers, and stock organizationVisual MerchandisingExecute and maintain planogramsEnsure all displays are on-brand and optimized for salesAlign merchandising with promotions and storytellingStaffing & LeadershipTrain and schedule part-time retail staffLead on-site teams during eventsProvide coaching, feedback, and motivationModel strong customer service on the floorCustomer ExperienceEnsure exceptional in-person fan interactionsResolve issues quickly and professionallyBring energy and engagement to the retail spaceAnalytics & ReportingUse data to adjust staffing and merchandisingTrack and report sales performance, product movement, and event insights (including attendance) Cross-Functional CollaborationCoordinate with Retail Buying, League Operations, and Warehouse OperationsSupport activations and special programsRequirements3-5 years in retail operations, store management, or event merchandisingExperience managing pop-ups or multi-location retailStrong merchandising and inventory management skillsProven leadership of part-time teamsWillingness to travel frequently to game locations during the season Ability to work weekends, holidays, and non-traditional hours when in seasonLegal authorization to work in the United StatesPhysical RequirementsThe AUSL takes place in outdoor venues, during the summer months. Candidates should be able to and comfortable with:Performing job duties outdoors in summer weather, including exposure to heat, humidity, and direct sunlightStanding for duration of each shift (approximately 6-8 hours) while performing job-related tasksAbility to safely lift and move, push or pull objects up to 25 pounds independently, and over 25 pounds with assistanceThese are essential functions of the role and may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.BenefitsThe rate for this position is $25/hr.As this is a seasonal position, traditional employee benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans are not included.1099 Contractors are responsible for their own taxes and insurance coverage.Our DEI StatementAs a company, we share a vision to change the world for the better and believe in the power of sports to tear down barriers. We will Be Unlimited in our pursuit to intentionally create an environment where every individual can be their authentic self.Athletes Unlimited is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in its hiring process based on race, religion, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression, pregnancy status, parental status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.