The Kansas City Current, a dynamic and rapidly growing organization, is seeking an exceptional Retail Marketing & Brand Manager to join our team. In this influential role, you will have a unique opportunity to connect the KC Current brand with a global fan base and drive substantial retail revenue through innovative and impactful multi-channel marketing strategies. As the esteemed gatekeeper of the Current brand, you will serve as the primary liaison with our esteemed third-party retail provider, Rank and Rally.

Responsibilities: The role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to the following:

Assume the pivotal role of brand ambassador, ensuring that the KC Current brand is consistently and authentically represented across all touchpoints and interactions.
Collaborate closely with the Marketing team to develop comprehensive and compelling e-commerce strategies that encompass email marketing campaigns, social media initiatives, mobile app enhancements, website optimizations, and captivating matchday activations.
Play an integral role in coordinating and executing product photo and video shoots to revitalize the digital retail presence, ensuring it aligns with modern trends and captivates our audience.
Cultivate strategic and collaborative partnerships with like-minded licensees, fostering the development of authentic storytelling moments that resonate deeply with our passionate fanbase.
Collaborate directly with Rank and Rally, our esteemed retail partner, to streamline inventory management, optimize product purchasing, generate insightful sales reports, and implement impactful marketing promotions.
Engage proactively with cross-functional leaders across various departments, including Tickets, Marketing, Community Relations, Corporate Partnerships, and more, to ensure that retail initiatives are seamlessly integrated and consistently represented.
Assume ownership of the team shop's customer service messaging and ticketing system, guaranteeing exceptional service standards, and providing an unparalleled shopping experience.
Actively participate in monthly NWSL league meetings, offering comprehensive matchday summary reports to the league and actively building a robust network of brand leaders within the NWSL community.
Demonstrate a forward-thinking mindset by anticipating and analyzing industry trends, leveraging market insights to collaborate effectively with vendors and implement strategic plans that drive revenue growth.
Serve as the primary internal point of contact for player, coach, staff, and ownership requests, effectively managing their needs and fostering strong professional relationships.
Efficiently schedule staff and expertly manage the event schedule, which includes overseeing the operations of the Teal Mobile and various retail events.
Exhibit proficient management of all licensing agreements with local and national vendors, ensuring compliance and nurturing positive and productive partnerships.
Take charge of ordering all promotional materials and giveaway items for the organization, a keen attention to detail and a commitment to delivering exceptional merchandise.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Demonstrated expertise as a skillful negotiator with experience in effectively managing supplier relationships, ensuring favorable outcomes.
Proficiency in utilizing retail store POS systems and generating comprehensive reports to facilitate data-driven decision-making.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office software suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, enabling the effective conveyance of brand messaging and the ability to engage diverse audiences.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, enabling the identification of market trends, consumer behaviors, and sales opportunities.
Proven track record in developing and executing successful retail marketing campaigns across various channels.
Sound understanding of retail merchandising strategies and visual merchandising principles, with an eye for aesthetics and market appeal.
Familiarity with e-commerce platforms and best practices for online retail, keeping abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends.
Thorough understanding of licensing agreements and intellectual property rights within a retail context.
Up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, consumer preferences, and competitor activities in the retail and sports merchandise space, driving innovative and cutting-edge strategies.
Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by the date of hire, subject to legally mandated accommodations.

Minimum Education and Qualifications:

A university or college-level degree in a relevant field is preferred.
A minimum of 2 to 4 years of experience in marketing or branding, with a focus on retail.

Physical Requirements:

The role entails prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer system.
Extended periods of standing and walking long distances are expected during various events and retail operations.
Must be capable of lifting to 50 pounds at a time to oversee merchandise and promotional items.

Who You Are: We are seeking an individual who embodies the following characteristics:

Team-oriented mindset, thriving in a collaborative work environment.
Exceptional organizational skills with a keen eye for detail, enabling efficient management of a demanding schedule.
Demonstrated integrity and honesty, aligning with our company culture.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on the KC Current event schedule.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.