Senior Retail Manager

About the role

The Colgate Bookstore is Central New York's largest independent bookstore, located in a historic three-story building in the heart of Hamilton. We are owned and operated by Colgate University and are committed to upholding the University's standard of excellence in fostering an inviting and inclusive atmosphere and providing exceptional, personalized service to all.

Accountabilities

• Accountable for the effective procurement of Insignia and Non-Insignia general merchandise.
• Accountable for meeting annual budgets for revenue, inventory, cash flow and ultimately the profitability of general merchandise products.
• Ensures inventory levels are in alignment with annual sales goals.
• Responsible for collaborating with multiple departments, including Alumni Relations and Athletics on special orders, events and new revenue opportunities.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining strong vendor relationships.
• Attending industry trade shows and educational sessions to stay up to date on trends for insignia and non-insignia products.
• Maintain excellent visual merchandise standards on the selling floor.
• Assist other departments within the store as needed.
• Responsible for the effective supervision of staff as assigned.
• Ensures selection and hiring of high quality employees; ensures appropriate distribution of work assignments and high quality of employee work product; ensures fair and accurate performance assessments and feedback to include identifying areas for professional development and documenting and conducting disciplinary measures, as needed.
• Responsible for ensuring fair and accurate decisions regarding employment status (hire, promotion, salary increases, termination); ensures the creation of effective opportunities and programs for employee mentoring, development and sustained performance.

Professional Experience/Qualifications

• Proven ability and strong desire to provide a high standard of customer service with enthusiasm and energy.
• Three years buying experience in retail apparel and gifts required.
• Deep understanding of retail accounting, inventory management, retail related information systems and retail purchasing and marketing required.
• Ability to work on weekends in a rotation and some evenings.
• Proven success with team leadership with strong communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with insignia products preferred.
• Experience working in a higher education or similar setting is preferred.

Education

• Associates Degree and Retail Experience Required.
• Bachelor's degree or a combination of education and experience through which comparable skills are obtained are highly preferred.

Other Information

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position.