Location: Seattle, WA (onsite: at team facilities and match venues)
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Seattle Seawolves Rugby team, of Major League Rugby, is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Retail & Merchandise Specialist to oversee the full lifecycle of inventory operations across our venue, gameday, and community event merchandise initiatives. This is a hands-on role requiring strong organizational skills, leadership, and a commitment to operational excellence. You will work closely with partners, game-day staff, and internal teams to ensure a seamless retail experience for fans and attendees. Responsibilities and tasks will be supervised by the team’s COO, with support and guidance provided by the Seattle team’s Manager, Business Operations.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Purchasing
● Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors, wholesale suppliers, and custom manufacturers to secure high-quality merchandise at competitive prices.
● Build and maintain strong relationships with local and national suppliers to ensure reliable product availability and timely delivery.
● Research and select merchandise styles, colors, and product lines that align with team branding, fan preferences, and current market trends.
● Collaborate with marketing and design teams to develop exclusive, team-branded apparel and accessories for retail and event sales.
● Analyze historical sales data, fan demographics, and event attendance to forecast demand and determine optimal product mix.
● Calculate and order proper minimum order quantities (MOQs) for each product category to maximize sales while minimizing excess inventory and stockouts.
● Adjust ordering strategies seasonally and for special events based on updated sales trends and promotional plans.
Inventory Management
● Oversee the receiving, counting, and organization of all incoming merchandise shipments.
● Maintain accurate inventory records, update POS systems, and reconcile discrepancies through regular cycle counts
● Organize and secure all inventory in stockrooms and event locations
● Ensure accurate barcoding, pricing, and POS system integration for all products
● Perform monthly cycle counts and reconcile discrepancies
● Prepare detailed financial and inventory reports for management, highlighting sales performance and inventory turnover.
● Manage special requests from internal staff members and partnership needs as directed
Game Day Operations & Events
● Replenish products during events in real time and track restocks in the system
● Train part-time vendor staff on product knowledge, customer service, and upselling strategies
● Ensure all merchandise areas are properly stocked, staffed, and displayed
● Act as merchandising liaison to the venue sales team.
● Responsible for collaboration with the team around all facets of merch management to ensure best game day execution and fan experience
● Report after each game or event as to how to improve processes and get better results – what worked, what did not, we need more of, we need less of, etc.
● Manage merchandise pop-ups at external community and youth events
● Identify and secure local event opportunities that align with Seawolves Rugby brand values
● Maintain visual displays per provided planograms
● Collaborate with third-party partners to ensure appropriate fixtures and presentation
● Ensure signage, video board graphics, and P.A. reads are executed with the marketing team
Warehouse & Stockroom Oversight
● Enforce best practices in inventory and stockroom standard operating procedures
● Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace
● Track all in-store processes including receiving, returns, pricing, and inventory accuracy
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS:
● Proven experience in inventory, retail operations, or venue merchandise management
● Familiarity with Inventory Management and Shopify Point of Sale (POS) Systems
● Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. regularly and perform physical stockroom tasks
● Strong organizational and communication skills
● Excellent relationship-building and people skills, with the ability to interact with internal and external clients at all levels within the organization
● A proactive mindset with attention to detail and ability to multi-task
● Availability for nights, weekends, and game/event days
● Must have reliable transportation.
PREFERRED SKILLS/ATTRIBUTES:
● Experience working in sports, entertainment, or high-volume retail environments
● Interest in supporting Seawolves Rugby and community engagement initiatives
Compensation Range: $22.00 - $25.00/hour USD
Job Questions:
- I understand that this job is not remote based and candidate must live/relocate to Seattle?
- How many years of experience do you have in inventory, retail operations, or venue merchandise management?
