Vice President, Retail & Merchandising

Vice President, RetailThe Vice President, Retail will serve as the senior leader overseeing all multi-channel retail operations across the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, the new Atlanta NWSL club, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and AMBSE special projects. This role owns the complete retail journey—strategic direction, P&L, product vision, operational execution, and team leadership—while shaping a fan-first, data-driven retail ecosystem.Reporting to the Chief Marketing Officer, the VP, Retail leads all aspects of AMBSE's retail business. This executive sets long-term retail strategy, owns the P&L, drives product innovation, manages licensing and vendor partnerships, oversees all physical retail operations, and ensures seamless omnichannel integration. The VP will build and scale a high-performing team and establish the processes, standards, and technologies needed to elevate performance, profitability, and fan connection across every retail touchpoint.Key Challenges & First-Year DeliverablesOperational Excellence: Strengthen buying, inventory, and retail operationsNew Team Launch: Launch a merchandise strategy for the Atlanta NWSL teamMargin Improvement: Improve margins through pricing, supply chain optimization, and assortment strategyInnovation & Growth: Increase custom collections and drive at least 15% growth in units soldKey ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & P&L OwnershipDrive top-line revenue growth and margin expansion across all physical retail channels, holding full P&L accountability for the in-venue businessRedefine AMBSE's overall retail strategy, prioritizing fan experience and revenue growthProduct Lifecycle OwnershipOwn the full product lifecycle: assortment planning, forecasting, buying, design direction, pricing, and distributionDevelop compelling merchandise that blends team identity (Falcons, United, NWSL) with leading retail trendsElevate women's and youth offerings, expand custom collections, and pursue local collaborationsLicensing, Partnerships & WholesaleOversee licensing, vendor agreements, wholesale programs, and league relationshipsServe as the primary liaison with AMBSE's third-party eCommerce partner (Fanatics), ensuring seamless inventory integration, coordinated product launches, and a cohesive omnichannel experiencePhysical Operations ManagementOversee operations across all physical retail locations, including the flagship stadium store, concourse kiosks, and future retail conceptsEnsure operational excellence, strong visual merchandising standards, and an elevated fan experienceInventory & Supply Chain ManagementImplement inventory and supply chain strategies to optimize stock flow, minimize shrinkage, and maximize availability during high-demand eventsManage inventory needs related to roster moves, playoffs, and special eventsTechnology LeadershipLeverage technology to drive sales and streamline operations (e.g., RFID, mobile POS, app-based promotions)Evaluate and implement new retail technologies to enhance fan experience and operational efficiencyTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead a team of full-time managers and part-time/seasonal associatesFoster a culture of accountability, creativity, and service excellenceOversee onboarding, training, and developmentCross-Functional Collaboration & RepresentationPartner across Marketing, Finance, Stadium Operations, and Team leadership to align retail strategy with business objectivesSupport marketing campaigns that drive product awareness and sell-throughRepresent AMBSE with external partners, licensees, and league stakeholdersStrategic Planning & Market AnalysisAnalyze market trends, consumer insights, and competitive landscape to inform product and retail strategyKey Prior Experience & Qualifications10+ years of experience leading multi-channel retail organizations with P&L accountabilityExperience within professional sports retail or a comparable environmentExperience with large-scale consumer brands (e.g., Nike, Adidas, Fanatics, Nordstrom, Lululemon)Strong understanding of the Atlanta market and consumer landscapeDeep expertise in merchandising, assortment planning, and inventory managementExperience managing vendor partnerships and third-party relationshipsProven track record leading large, diverse teams in complex retail environmentsBachelor's degree required; MBA preferredProfessional & Cultural CharacteristicsExecutive presence with the ability to present complex strategies to senior leadershipCreative vision to translate brand identity into compelling product offeringsStrong stakeholder management and collaboration skillsAnalytical and process-driven with a focus on data-informed decision makingAdaptable and solutions-oriented in a fast-paced environmentPassion for both retail and sportsCompensation & LocationBased in Atlanta, GeorgiaMust be available to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, to support games and events