Merchandise & Retail Manager

Merchandise & Retail Manager – USL Soccer ClubThe Merchandise & Retail Manager will lead all retail and merchandise operations for the club, driving revenue growth, enhancing the fan experience, and building a strong, community-connected brand through compelling product offerings. This role oversees all sales channels — including matchday retail, team store operations, e-commerce, and wholesale — while managing inventory, vendor relationships, and retail staff. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who combines business strategy, creative merchandising, and community engagement to turn retail into a key profit center for the club.Key ResponsibilitiesRetail Operations & Matchday ExecutionLead all in-stadium retail operations, including staffing, setup, and sales executionEnsure efficient point-of-sale operations to minimize lines and maximize revenue per fanOversee visual merchandising to deliver a best-in-class fan shopping experienceManage day-to-day team store operations and e-commerce fulfillmentE-commerce StrategyManage and optimize the club's online store (e.g., Shopify)Ensure alignment across in-stadium, online, and wholesale inventory and pricingCoordinate product launches, promotions, and campaigns with the marketing teamDrive growth in online sales, conversion rate, and customer experienceMerchandising, Buying & Inventory ManagementLead product assortment planning across jerseys, training gear, lifestyle apparel, and collectiblesDevelop seasonal buying strategies aligned with match schedule, key moments, and community eventsForecast demand and manage inventory to minimize stockouts and excessAnalyze sales trends and performance to inform purchasing decisions and pricing strategiesManage open-to-buy and inventory turnover to maximize marginStrategic Leadership & Financial PerformanceDevelop and execute annual retail sales plans across all channelsOwn merchandise revenue goals and track performance against KPIsMonitor margins, pricing strategies, and cost controlsDeliver regular reporting on sales, inventory, and trendsBuild a data-driven retail strategy using POS insights and fan behaviorVendor & Partner ManagementManage relationships with apparel providers, manufacturers, licensees, and local vendorsNegotiate pricing, timelines, and exclusive product opportunitiesEnsure timely delivery of merchandise, especially ahead of season launches and key matchesDevelop co-branded products and retail partnerships with sponsors and local businessesTeam Leadership & OperationsHire, train, and manage a high-performing retail staff (matchday + full-time)Create a culture of accountability, sales performance, and exceptional customer serviceOversee scheduling, staffing plans, and operational efficiencyLead continuous improvement across retail operationsBrand & Community EngagementCollaborate with marketing to create unique, locally relevant merchandiseExecute retail activations tied to matches, events, and community initiativesSupport festivals, partnerships, and fan engagement opportunities through merchandiseEnsure all retail touchpoints reflect the club's identity and cultureQualifications3–5+ years (or 5+ preferred) experience in retail, merchandising, or e-commerceExperience in sports, apparel, or lifestyle brands strongly preferredProven ability to drive retail growth across multiple sales channelsStrong understanding of inventory management, merchandising analytics, and POS systemsExperience managing staff in high-traffic or event-based environmentsProficiency with e-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify)Excellent leadership, organization, and communication skillsAbility to work nights, weekends, and all home matchesKey Performance Indicators (KPIs)Total merchandise revenue & revenue per capitaGross margin performanceInventory turnover rateE-commerce growth & conversion rateMatchday transaction speed & customer satisfactionSell-through rate on key product linesWhat Success Looks LikeSignificant growth in merchandise revenue across all channelsSeamless, high-energy matchday retail experienceStrong product sell-through with minimal excess inventoryA recognizable, community-driven merchandise identityRetail established as a core revenue driver for the clubWe are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.