Director of Retail (Contract) - Constellation Immersive

Constellation Immersive is a producing studio specializing in original and IP-based live content. Constellation Immersive collaborates with world class talent and iconic brands to create inspiring and innovative experiences at the convergence of pop culture, storytelling, design and technology. Since launching, our company has produced multiple iterations of The Elf on the Shelf's Magical Holiday Journey and The DiscOasis.

In 2022, Fast Company named Constellation Immersive one of the top 10 live events companies innovating in the category of location-based entertainment.

We are looking for a Freelance Director of Retail to join our team on a contract basis, with the potential to transition into a full-time position. This position will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing our retail strategy and will be responsible for overseeing new store openings, developing standard operating procedures (SOPs), managing buying processes, and enhancing our e-commerce presence. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in retail management, experience with Shopify, and exceptional project management skills. This role requires approximately 10 hours per week, with the potential for additional hours as projects get closer to launching. This position offers the flexibility to work remotely with occasional in-person meetings with clients as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive retail strategies aligned with project goals.
• Analyze market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth.
• Collaborate with creative teams to design exclusive, high-quality, and innovative product lines.
• Create Visual Merchandising Plan & Inventory Strategy.
• Lead the planning and execution of the new store launches and venue setups.
• Oversee the recruitment, onboarding, and development of store teams.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to ensure timely and successful openings.
• Optimize store layouts, inventory management, and staffing to maximize sales and efficiency.
• Leverage customer insights to continuously refine and improve the in-store experience.
• Develop and document SOPs for retail operations to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Train staff on SOPs and monitor adherence.
• Oversee the buying process, including selecting products, negotiating with suppliers, and managing inventory.
• Ensure product assortments meet customer needs and company standards.
• Manage and optimize the Shopify platform for online sales.
• Implement e-commerce strategies to enhance user experience and drive sales growth.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers.
• Negotiate contracts and manage vendor and supplier relationships to ensure quality and timely delivery.
• Foster positive relationships with clients, addressing their needs and ensuring satisfaction.
• Lead client meetings to drive alignment on retail initiatives, ensuring seamless communication and execution of project goals.
• Develop strategies to enhance client engagement and loyalty.
• Oversee retail projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.
• Coordinate with Finance to create a P&L and budget for this project.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in a retail management role, preferably as a Director or similar leadership position.
• Demonstrated experience with Shopify and setting up new online stores and physical venues.
• Expertise in retail technology, customer engagement strategies, and operational best practices.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills for managing vendor and client relationships.
• Demonstrates knowledge of strategic planning and budgeting.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Proficient in developing and implementing SOPs.
• Proficiency in Powerpoint, Excel, and Word.

The base hourly rate for this position is between $40 and $60 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.