Retail Operations Manager

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Full-time Regular Management Utica, Utica, NY, US

9 days ago Requisition

Salary: $62,500.00 Annually

The Retail Operations Manager leads Munson’s retail enterprises, including the Museum Shop and Campus Store, driving sales growth, operational excellence, and an outstanding customer experience. Reporting to the Director of Performing Arts and Special Programs, this position oversees all aspects of retail performance—from product selection and visual presentation to staffing, budgeting, and financial oversight. The manager will also be a key participant in the eventual consolidation of the separate Museum Shop and Campus Store into one new, unified retail location within the existing Museum of Art building, helping to guide its concept, layout, and business strategy.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and results-oriented manager with strong commercial retail experience, exceptional business acumen, and a passion for connecting people with distinctive products and experiences that reflect Munson’s mission and brand.

Munson is committed to community engagement and belonging. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background, and welcome the unique perspectives and experiences they bring. If your skills and qualifications align with this opportunity, we invite you to apply to join our team. This position will model the values and culture of the organization to colleagues and the public by being welcoming, inclusive, and respectful and will value collaboration across the organization.

Provides leadership and strategic direction for both retail locations, ensuring annual revenue, margin, and profitability goals are met. This position analyzes sales performance, identifies trends, and adjusts inventory and product mix to meet customer demand and institutional priorities. Develops and implements strategies to grow sales through in-store, online, and event-based channels while maintaining a seamless and engaging shopping experience that supports Munson’s identity and mission.

Sources, evaluates, and purchases products that align with Munson’s brand and the interests of its audiences, including materials related to the School of Art and Museum of Art exhibitions. Responsible for negotiating vendor and consignor contracts, establishing pricing strategies to maximize margins, and developing custom or exclusive merchandise that extends Munson’s creative reach.

Oversee and Manage Retail Operations Budget

Prepares and manages the annual retail budget, including sales forecasts, cost of goods, and operating expenses, and regularly monitors key performance metrics such as sales trends, inventory turnover, gross margin, and profitability. The position is responsible for regular inventory analysis and annual reconciliations, as well as preparing and executing quarterly consignment payment reports and New York State sales tax reports for the Finance Office.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Recruits, trains, and supervises retail staff, fostering a customer-focused, high-performance culture. Provide consistent coaching, feedback, and performance evaluations, developing staffing plans that balance service excellence with operational efficiency.

Marketing

In collaboration with Munson’s Marketing and Communications team, the Retail Operations Manager develops promotional campaigns, social media features, and seasonal sales initiatives that strengthen Munson’s retail presence. The manager also creates engaging visual merchandising displays that highlight featured products and enhance the overall shopping experience. Additionally, they coordinate retail tie-ins with special exhibitions and institutional events, ensuring that both shops reflect and enrich the broader visitor experience.

Customer Relations

Promote excellence in customer experience across both retail locations. Develop and maintain productive working relationships with customers, vendors, partners, and…