Director of Merchandising and Retail Development

Mission & Company Overview

At Horizon Hobby, we inspire dreams and help build memories! Our company is the leader in the global Radio Control industry, celebrating 40 years in 2025. We offer tremendous opportunities for growth and development and a full array of benefits including discounts on our products!

About the Role

We are currently hiring for a Director of Merchandising and Retail Development. This is a full-time, on-site position at our Champaign, IL location. Working hours are Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Typical pay for this position is $120,000-$130,000 annually. The final offer for this position will be based on the unique experience and qualifications of the candidate selected.

Responsibilities

• Merge end-to-end merchandising strategy for RC product categories, ensuring best-in-class presentation across all consumer touchpoints
• Oversee product presentation, including packaging design, box art, and visual storytelling that reflects premium brand positioning
• Create and manage B2B merchandising programs to support wholesale and specialty retail channels
• Lead the planning, design, and execution of a brick-and-mortar retail pilot location, from concept to grand opening
• Own the full lifecycle of store development: site scoping, layout design, vendor coordination, buildout, merchandising setup, and launch
• Establish operational standards, processes, and KPIs for retail performance
• Build and scale the Retail Operations & Development function, laying the foundation for future expansion
• Partner with Brand Managers to align product positioning, launches, and storytelling
• Collaborate with Sales Channel Leaders to ensure merchandising strategies drive conversion and channel growth
• Work with product development, marketing, and supply chain teams to deliver cohesive end-to-end consumer experience

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience in merchandising, retail development, or related roles
• Proven experience across full-spectrum retail store development (concept through grand opening)
• Strong background in product merchandising, packaging, and in-store presentation
• Experience working with consumer product goods (CPG), preferably in enthusiast, hobby, or specialty retail categories
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally with product, brand, and sales teams
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to build new programs and functions from the ground up
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in hobby, electronics, specialty retail, or enthusiast-driven product categories
• Understanding of B2B merchandising programs and dealer networks
• Familiarity with retail design, fixtures, and customer experience strategy

Benefits & Other Perks

• Medical, Dental, Vision HSA and FSA options
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance and Supplemental Life Insurance
• 401(k) with a company match
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Internal Rewards Discounts on Products
• Additional Coverage such as accident, critical, hospital and pet insurance