Product Manager, Guitars

Product Manager - New Guitars

Chicago Music Exchange is seeking a Product Category Manager to oversee the full lifecycle of new products across guitars, amplifiers, and effects pedals. This role is responsible for building a profitable, trend‑aware assortment by managing purchasing, inventory levels, product data, vendor relationships, and new product launches.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail oriented, and passionate about music gear. You will work closely with sales, e‑commerce, marketing, and receiving teams to ensure our catalog is accurate, compelling, and aligned with customer demand.

In your cover letter, please tell us why you’re interested in this role and highlight the experience, skills, and product knowledge that make you a strong fit.

Please note this role is based out of our store/office in Chicago. This is not a remote position.

• Manage purchasing and replenishment for assigned product categories.
• Maintain accurate product data, pricing, and enter new items into our system.
• Analyze inventory, sales trends, and product performance to guide decisions.
• Collaborate with vendors on ordering, custom opportunities, and new product introductions.
• Identify aging inventory and create liquidation plans.
• Support product launches across ecommerce and marketing.
• Provide product information and training to internal teams.
• Process customer special orders and support sales as needed.

• Strong understanding of guitars, amps, effect pedals, and industry trends.
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
• Proficiency with data analysis and operating spreadsheets with very large data sets.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• A collaborative, proactive, and detail focused mindset.

• Experience working in musical instrument retail stores, manufacturers, or distributors.
• Familiarity with inventory systems, especially Netsuite, Shopify, Reverb.

• Salary Range: $50k - $80k
• Full time, 40hrs/week, at our store near Lincoln and Belmont. Just steps away from the Paulina Brown Line station!
• Health Insurance
  • Health Insurance will be available on the 1st of the month following 60 days of employment.
  • Medical Insurance: HMO, PPO, and HSA plans available. HMO and HSA employee premiums are fully paid for by the company.
  • Dental PPO through Blue Cross and Vision Insurance through Eye Med available as add‑ons.
  • $15k Life Insurance Policy included for you whether or not you enroll in health coverage.
• 401k after 12 months of employment with 2% match (must be 21 or older).
• Paid Time Off
  • Starting at 14 days per year and goes up to 28 days after 5 years of employment.
  • 7 Paid Holidays.
• Commuter Benefits - Pay for transit w/ pre‑tax dollars
• Employee discount on music gear
• Casual dress code and work environment

Potential employees must pass a background check. All applications are reviewed. No chats, emails or calls, please.