About Hamilton Sports Group
Hamilton Sports Group (HSG) is a premier sports and entertainment organization based in Hamilton, Ontario, proudly operating the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL) and Forge FC (CPL). HSG is committed to delivering best-in-class fan experiences through world-class events, merchandise, and community engagement.

Position Overview

The Manager, Retail Operations is responsible for leading all aspects of Hamilton Sports Group’s retail business across in-venue, event-based, and e-commerce channels. This role provides strategic leadership across merchandising, marketing, inventory, staffing, financial performance, and operational execution, ensuring retail excellence across the Tiger-Cats, Forge FC, and affiliated properties.

This position plays a critical role in driving revenue growth, brand consistency, and exceptional fan experiences in a fast-paced professional sports environment.

· Lead seasonal product planning and assortment strategy across all retail channels

· Purchase merchandise aligned with brand standards, fan demand, and revenue targets from licensed suppliers

· Review and approve product CADs, samples, and mock-ups from vendors

· Manage vendor relationships, including pricing, minimums, and delivery timelines

· Monitor product lifecycle performance, including launches, replenishment, markdown strategies, and exit plans

· Conduct sell-through and profitability analysis by product category and brand

· Develop pricing strategies and markdown plans based on performance and inventory levels

· Ensure strong in-store, event, and visual merchandising standards

· Oversee annual physical inventory counts and reconciliations

· Monitor inventory levels across all product categories and locations

· Manage stock transfers and replenishment planning

· Prepare weekly executive sales and performance reports

· Prepare required CFL and CPL league retail reporting

· Ensure retail alignment with brand standards across Tiger-Cats, Forge FC, and affiliated properties

· Develop and manage the annual retail marketing calendar, including campaigns, launches, game/match specials, key events, and promotions in cooperation with our marketing team

· Plan and execute promotional campaigns to drive retail revenue, including discount events, bundles, and limited-edition offerings

· Coordinate and schedule product photography for e-commerce, marketing campaigns, and digital assets

· Collaborate with marketing and partnerships teams on co-branded initiatives and sponsor integrations

· Oversee online store operations, including product uploads, pricing accuracy, promotions, and fulfillment coordination

· Optimize e-commerce performance and customer experience

· Ensure operational readiness for all game days, matches, and major events

· Manage POS systems and retail technology

· Ensure compliance with league licensing and merchandising requirements

· Lead recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and training of retail coordinators, interns, and retail associates

· Prepare retail part-time staff employment contracts and manage HR documentation

· Work with Store Manager to schedule weekly and event-based retail staffing

· Review monthly inventory and financial summaries

· Lead forecasting and open-to-buy analysis

· Manage the retail operating budget

· Track revenue, margins, and expense performance

· Identify revenue growth opportunities and cost efficiencies

· Support annual planning and forecasting processes

· 5+ years of progressive retail operations or merchandising experience, preferably in sports, entertainment, or high-volume event environments

· Proven leadership experience managing teams across multiple retail channels

· Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and inventory planning

· Experience managing vendor relationships and product development cycles

· Proficiency with POS systems, e-commerce platforms, and retail reporting tools. Experience with Shopify and Erply is a strong benefit

· Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills

· Ability to work flexible hours, including event days on evenings and weekends

Please Note:
This position is for an existing vacancy. We do not use AI to screen candidates. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.