Amaze, Inspire, Unite
Job Summary:
The Retail Director at Ilitch Sports + Entertainment is responsible for leading and managing our retail business including launching new retail lines for the Detroit Tiges and Red Wings. This role involves developing and executing retail strategies that maximize revenue at both teams, enhance the fan experience, and align with the overall brand and business objectives of IS+E. The Retail Director will work closely with our retail partner, Delaware North, ensuring efficient operations and exceptional customer service. The Retail Director will need to understand the complexities of team sports retail and be able to build a department.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
Develop and implement retail strategies aligned with the company’s overall goals and objectives
Oversee the performance and growth of the retail division, including all six verticals that include Lifestyle, Club Premium, Local Brand Collaborations, Special Campaigns, DNC Partnership and Authentics.
Ensure efficient and effective day-to-day operations
Serve as the liaison between IS+E and DNC & League Offices
Collaborate with senior management to align retail initiatives with the team’s overall business goals and marketing campaigns.
Collaborate with IS+E legal on all matters related to our retail business.
Analyze sales data and market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
Develop pricing strategies and promotional activities to maximize sales and profitability.
Develop and manage the retail budget, including forecasting and financial planning.
Monitor expenses and implement cost control measures to ensure profitability.
Collaborate with the marketing and ticketing teams to develop and execute retail marketing campaigns.
Ensure merchandising strategies are aligned with brand guidelines and promotional activities.
Plan and execute events and promotions to drive traffic and sales.
Stay up to date with the latest retail trends, technologies, and best practices.
With collaboration from the design team, develop new lifestyle pieces.
Implement new ideas and innovations to improve the retail operations and fan experience.
External Relationships:
Works with DNC on day-to-day retail operations, including physical team stores, kiosks, and online merchandise platforms.
Develop relationships with League Offices to manage licensing protocols.
Work with local artists to design retail for our local collaborations vertical.
Develop relationships with retail vendors to provide new capsules and campaigns to our collections.
Team Leadership and Development:
Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing retail team.
Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, encouraging teamwork and professional growth.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, retail management, marketing, or a related field.
Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in retail management, preferably in a sports or entertainment environment.
Proven track record of successfully leading retail operations and achieving sales targets.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to analyze data and make informed business decisions.
Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
Strong communication skills.
Proficiency in retail management software and e-commerce platforms.
Passion for sports and a deep understanding of the fan experience.
Working Conditions:
This position may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially on game days and during special events.
Some travel may be required for meetings, conferences, and vendor visits.
All items listed above are illustrative and not comprehensive. They are not contractual in nature and are subject to change at the discretion of Olympia Entertainment.
Olympia Entertainment is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to that individual’s race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, ethnicity, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The Company will strive to provide reasonable accommodations to permit qualified applicants who have a need for an accommodation to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a job interview) if so requested.