Manager, Retail Buying & Business Operations

Are you passionate about culture, the arts, and retail business operations? Do you have a knack for strategic planning and an eye for unique retail products? Join our team at ROM and embark on a rewarding career as a Manager, Retail Buying and Business Operations.

POSITION SUMMARY:

As the Manager, Retail Buying and Business Operations, you will lead our retail product buying and business operations team. You will ensure our retail offerings align with ROM’s curatorial initiatives, support the museum’s goals, and cater to a diverse audience. Your role will be pivotal in enhancing our retail operations and exceeding budget targets.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Research product categories that complement ROM's curatorial initiatives and strategic plan.
2. Monitor store sales, product margins, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure retail operations meet and exceed budget targets.
3. Use tact and diplomacy when dealing with independent and community-based artists and suppliers.
4. Successfully negotiate product purchases from online multi-vendor sites, in-person suppliers, independent artists, and community artist collectives.
5. Collaborate with other ROM departments to ensure product categories and stories are aligned with cross-departmental initiatives.
6. Work with retail team members to ensure product supply meets shopper and seasonal demand, as well as exhibit and gallery merchandise story demand.
7. Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. University degree in retail business or supply management, with certification in supply chain procurement.
2. Minimum of ten years of related management experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
3. Proven experience as a manager in retail business operations or a relevant role.
4. Outstanding oral and written communication and customer service skills.
5. Excellent organizational and project management skills.
6. Demonstrated skills in staff team management.
7. Proven ability in effective facilitation and negotiation with suppliers and artists.
8. Familiarity with current purchasing and retail business operations best practices.
9. Strong experience with market research, data analysis, and forecasting techniques.
10. Excellent knowledge of MS Office and working knowledge of purchasing software (e.g., Shopify Plus and purchasing apps).
11. Strong experience in developing and controlling budgets for retail store product purchasing and business operations.
12. Ability to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, based on retail business operations, inventory taking, seasonal peak product buying, museum visitation, and deadlines.
13. French language knowledge would be an asset.

SALARY & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

1. START DATE: ASAP
2. OPEN DATE: July 26, 2024
3. CLOSE DATE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED
4. STATUS: Full-time Permanent
5. EMPLOYEE GROUP: Non-Union
6. HOURLY RATE: $88,666 - 104,313
7. SCHEDULE: 35 hours weekly
8. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Six (6) months
9. LOCATION (on-site): Toronto, ON

Diversity Statement

At ROM, we consider equity, diversity, and inclusion foundational to our institutional success. We seek to foster a workplace that reflects the diversity of the city and province in which we are located and welcome all qualified and experienced candidates to apply, regardless of their gender, age, sex, race, religion, ethnicity, ability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Accessibility Statement

ROM is committed to fair and accessible employment practices. Upon request, suitable accommodations are available under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA) to applicants invited to an interview.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that all candidates receiving a verbal job offer will be subject to a background check. This includes a criminal background check and verification of professional references, and, other checks depending on the role.