Retail Department Manager

RETAIL (MERCHANDISE/GIFT) DEPARTMENT MANAGER

Retail (Merchandise/Gift) Department Manager – Multi-Category Retail Leader

Full-Time | Bonus Eligible | Full Benefits | Growth Opportunity

Overview

We are seeking a high-impact Retail Department Manager to lead operations in a high-volume, multi-category retail environment.

This is not a traditional retail role — you will oversee a diverse product mix including apparel, licensed merchandise, premium brands, and specialty retail. Success in this role requires strong merchandising instincts, inventory control, and team leadership.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• Quarterly performance bonus
• Company-paid medical insurance (multiple options)
• 401(k) with 5% company match
• Dental & Vision coverage
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• AD&D coverage
• PTO, HSA, FSA

Retail Product Categories

You will oversee a dynamic retail environment that includes:

• Toys & impulse merchandise
• Wally’s branded gear (apparel, mugs, accessories)
• Pet products
• Licensed professional & collegiate sports merchandise
• Premium brands including Oakley, Ray-Ban, and RovR
• Men’s & Women’s apparel
• Books & specialty retail items

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop Retail Leads and team members
• Drive accountability and performance through consistent coaching
• Manage scheduling, labor planning, and staffing needs
• Build a culture of ownership, professionalism, and execution

Merchandising & Retail Execution

• Execute category-specific merchandising strategies across apparel, accessories, licensed merchandise, and premium retail products
• Maintain a high-impact, sales-driven retail floor
• Ensure product placement, presentation, and in-stock conditions meet standards

Inventory Control & Asset Protection

• Oversee receiving, stocking, and backstock organization
• Monitor inventory accuracy and investigate discrepancies
• Execute cycle counts and monthly audits
• Ensure proper control of high-value merchandise (premium eyewear, specialty items)
• Partner with Loss Prevention to minimize shrink

Guest Experience

• Model and enforce exceptional hospitality standards
• Resolve escalated guest concerns with urgency and professionalism

Financial & Operational Performance

• Manage labor, sales, and inventory metrics
• Support budgeting and cost control initiatives

What Success Looks Like

• Strong merchandising standards across all categories
• Accurate inventory and minimized shrink
• Engaged, accountable team performance
• Consistent achievement of labor and financial goals
• Positive guest experiences

Schedule Expectations

Open availability required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of retail leadership experience required
• Multi-category or high-volume retail experience preferred
• Strong merchandising and inventory management skills
• Proven ability to lead and develop teams

Physical Requirements

• Standing/walking for extended periods
• Lift up to 25 lbs regularly, 50 lbs occasionally