Senior Manager, Retail Merchandise

Under the direction of the Director of Retail, the Sr Manager Retail Merchandise leads the development and execution of merchandise strategies across a diverse casino assortment plan for retail and spa merchandise, to include grocery, licensee, general and high-end merchandise. Creates cohesive, competitive assortments to increase sales and maximize profit margins. Empowers with speed, flexibility and quick decision making to provide solutions for our supplier partners and support casino departments.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.    Executes merchandise strategies aligned with company goals, brand identity, and sales objectives. Analyzes market trends, competitor activity, and customer insights to identify growth opportunities and product gaps. Establishes seasonal assortment plans and long-term merchandising roadmaps.
2.    Drives sales, gross margin, and inventory turnover goals through effective merchandise planning and execution.
3.    Builds and maintains strong relationships with key vendors and suppliers to negotiate pricing, terms, and exclusives.  Sources new products, brands, and partnerships to enhance the assortment and profitability.  Oversees vendor performance, ensuring timely deliveries, quality standards, and compliance with company policies.
4.    Leads, mentors, and develops a team of buyers and merchandisers to achieve performance goals. Fosters a collaborative work environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and professional growth.  Conducts regular performance reviews, sets clear objectives, and provides ongoing coaching and feedback.  
5.    Oversees the end-to-end product lifecycle from concept to clearance, ensuring product performance aligns with financial targets. Makes data-driven decisions on assortment changes, reorders, markdowns, and discontinuations. Ensures product presentations meet brand standards in-store and online.
6.    Stays current on industry trends, consumer behavior, and emerging market dynamics to inform buying decisions. Attends trade shows, vendor meetings, and market appointments to identify new product opportunities. Leverages data analytics tools to evaluate product performance and anticipate future trends.
7.    Supports cross-functional strategic planning efforts for additional business units or assets throughout the enterprise, as requested.
8.    Ensures compliance with company policies, procedures, and ethical standards in all merchandising activities.
9.    Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient operation of the department and property.
 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning, assigning reviewing and directing work; evaluating and appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. Makes hiring decisions and designs individual development plans with succession planning in mind for all key roles.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in retail management or related field required.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience in a mid-level to high-end retail buying capacity with the associated extensive network of suppliers, distributors, and support ecosystem required.  Industry experience within the hospitality, casino, or resort industry preferred.
• Minimum three (3) years of supervisory experience required.
• Related, relevant, and/or direct experience may be considered in lieu of minimum educational requirements indicated above.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSA)

• Retail and merchandising principles and product lifecycle management.
• Vendor and supplier management including negotiation and performance oversight.
• Familiarity with human resources best practices, including hiring, training, and performance management.
• Demonstrates exceptional organization, strategic planning and leadership skills.
• Must be able to work independently and as a team player.
• Ability to build effective working relationships with cross-functional teams and individuals.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to travel up to one-quarter of the time.
• Proficiency in Microsoft word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint required. 

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS AND REGISTRATIONS

• At the discretion of the San Manuel Tribal Gaming Commission, you may be required to obtain and maintain a gaming