AE - Merchandising Team Leader (Assistant Manager)

American Eagle Outfitters • Hickory, NC

1d

About The Position

The full-time Merchandising Team Leader is the Store Team Leader’s go-to partner for developing and implementing the store’s merchandising strategy. This leader trains and coaches the team to deliver AEO visual standards, execute floorsets, maintain merchandising and marketing standards, and keep the store guest-ready through effective replenishment. The role also serves as a key Leader on Duty, supports sales and store financial performance, and represents AEO’s values.

The position leads and develops associates through recruitment, training, ongoing feedback, performance reviews, and engagement efforts. It supports daily merchandising and operational execution, maintains store safety and asset protection standards, and ensures adherence to company policies and procedures. The role requires flexible availability to work when guests shop.

American Eagle is an American jeans and apparel brand focused on casual style, self-expression, and community. The company states that it produces innovative, sustainable fabrics and is an Equal Opportunity Employer that provides reasonable accommodation in accordance with applicable law.

Requirements

• Previous experience leading teams in a retail management role.
• Ability to multitask and demonstrate attention to detail, priority-setting, and time-management skills.
• Ability to lead and develop teams.
• General understanding of employment law.
• Business acumen.
• Flexible availability to work when guests shop.

Nice To Haves

• Passion for AE and Aerie products.

Responsibilities

• Drive sales as a key Leader on Duty by maximizing Fitting Room and Salesfloor productivity and building guest loyalty through a best-in-class guest experience.
• Analyze reporting and daily trends to make strategic business decisions and contribute to the store’s financial success.
• Partner with the Store Team Leader on short- and long-term business plans to drive key KPIs.
• Coach the team to deliver an outstanding guest experience and maintain AEO Brand Standards.
• Lead day-to-day merchandising, sell-through adjustments, and replenishment; identify merchandising opportunities and act on them.
• Motivate and inspire the team through AEO’s core values, model leadership, and hold associates accountable to customer service standards.
• Recruit and hire talent to meet store staffing needs; train and develop associates to provide outstanding service.
• Provide ongoing performance feedback through real-time coaching, team touchbases, development plans, and performance reviews; promote associate engagement and recognize strong performance.
• Execute and improve daily operational procedures and support visual standards throughout store zones.
• Ensure Fitting Rooms are guest-ready and meet AEO Brand Standards.
• Maintain store safety standards, follow Asset Protection standards, and adhere to AEO policies and procedures.

Benefits

• 40% year-round product discount at AE and Aerie, with additional seasonal discounts associated with new Floorsets.
• Opportunity for development, learning new skills, and career advancement.
• Store contests offering opportunities to win free merchandise and other exclusive prizes.
• Subject to eligibility requirements: health care benefits, including medical, vision, and dental coverage; wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits.
• Paid holiday pay, subject to job level and type, job location, employment classification, and years of service.
• AEO may provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed