Director of Retail Operations

West Point Association of Graduates•West Point, NY

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The West Point Association of Graduates (WPAOG) is seeking an executive to direct in-store and Internet retail operations. The successful applicant will be responsible for a $2.0M revenue stream and a highly regarded gift shop operation with the expectation of significantly growing its profitability to above $2.5M within 24 months. The incumbent will participate in reviewing and refining the business model, adjusting business processes, partnering with agencies at West Point, and updating the product line in alignment with the West Point and West Point Association of Graduates' brands. The gift shop is a major revenue source for the Association, and it provides an affinity service to the Association's 50,000 members, their families, the West Point community, and thousands of friends of the United States Military Academy. The sale of affinity items is one element in the Association's comprehensive brand-projection strategy, which supports the Association's overall engagement strategy. The West Point Association of Graduates is located on the grounds of the Military Academy, and the alumni center is among the iconic venues at this national institution. The gift shop team is supported by professional communications and marketing, finance, and advancement services teams. The West Point Association of Graduates offers a superb, cooperative working environment. Success in this exciting position will require a professional who delights in taking responsibility for a business, working as a part of a collaborative team, and dedicating the hours required to building a high-performing operation. There will be significant seasonal work requirements during evening and weekend hours, when alumni are visiting West Point or attending functions in the alumni center. The salary range will be approximately $92,000 to $95,000 depending on skills and experience.

Requirements

High School diploma is required.
Great customer service skills.
A pleasant, professional demeanor are required.
Must live within commuting distance of West Point.

Nice To Haves

Established track record in brand-oriented retail.
Success in building an Internet channel.
A true eye for product design-creative vision and a passion for the details that create product appeal and enhance the institutional brand.
Familiarity with the Celerant point of sales/inventory management system.
Understanding of fundamental retail metrics and inventory control strategies.
Bachelor's degree in business, sales, marketing or merchandising preferred.
Three to five years of retail experience to include experience as a store manager is preferred.

Responsibilities

Direct in-store and Internet retail operations.
Manage a $2.0M revenue stream and gift shop operation.
Grow profitability to above $2.5M within 24 months.
Review and refine the business model.
Adjust business processes.
Partner with agencies at West Point.
Update the product line in alignment with the West Point and West Point Association of Graduates' brands.
Provide affinity service to members, families, the West Point community, and friends of the United States Military Academy.
Contribute to the Association's comprehensive brand-projection strategy.
Build a high-performing operation.
Manage significant seasonal work requirements during evening and weekend hours.