Retail Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

We are seeking a driven, organized, and customer-focused Retail Manager to oversee and grow all aspects of retail operations across multiple channels, including brick-and-mortar stores, event retail, merchandise programs, and ecommerce platforms. This role will work closely with the Retail General Manager, internal operations teams, and client stakeholders to deliver exceptional retail experiences, drive sales performance, and execute merchandise strategies.

The Retail Manager will be responsible for managing day-to-day retail operations, inventory control, merchandising standards, staff coordination, customer experience initiatives, and sales performance. The position will also support ecommerce operations and digital retail initiatives as part of a comprehensive retail strategy. 

The ideal candidate is a proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced sports and event retail environment, possesses strong operational and organizational skills, and is passionate about delivering outstanding customer and client experiences. 

Key Responsibilities 

Retail Operations
Oversee daily retail operations across store locations, event retail environments, and ecommerce channels 
Ensure consistent execution of retail standards, merchandising presentation, inventory management, and customer service expectations 
Partner with the Retail General Manager to develop and execute seasonal merchandise strategies and sales initiatives
Monitor sales performance, inventory levels, and operational metrics to maximize revenue opportunities and profitability
Support staffing, scheduling, training, and development of retail team members as needed
Lead matchday and event retail operations, ensuring preparedness, staffing coordination, and execution excellence 
Maintain strong relationships with clients and serve as a key point of contact for retail-related initiatives and operational updates 

Identify process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience 

Merchandising & Inventory Management
Manage inventory planning, replenishment, stock accuracy, and product lifecycle management 
Coordinate product launches, new merchandise introductions, and promotional campaigns
Ensure merchandise is appropriately displayed and presented in accordance with brand standards
Assist with purchasing decisions, assortment planning, and inventory optimization strategies
Conduct inventory analysis and reporting to support sales growth and inventory productivity 

Ecommerce & Digital Retail Support
Oversee and support ecommerce operations, including product setup, merchandising, inventory accuracy, and promotional execution
Collaborate with marketing and creative teams to ensure consistent product presentation across retail channels 
Monitor online sales performance and customer trends to identify opportunities for growth
Coordinate with internal ecommerce resources to implement platform updates and support digital retail initiatives 
Ensure online and in-store retail strategies align to create a seamless customer experience 

Customer & Client Experience 

Foster a customer-first culture across all retail touchpoints. Address customer concerns and escalations with professionalism and urgency
Lead regular client discussions regarding merchandise performance, retail initiatives, and growth opportunities
Support loyalty-building initiatives and programs that drive customer engagement and retention 

Reporting & Analysis
Prepare sales reports, inventory analysis, and operational recaps
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide recommendations to improve business performance
Support budgeting, forecasting, and retail planning efforts as needed 

Qualifications 

3+ years of retail management, retail operations, or merchandise management experience
Demonstrated leadership experience in a retail environment
Strong understanding of retail operations, inventory management, merchandising, and customer service best practices
Excellent communication, relationship-building, and client management skills
Strong organizational and project management abilities with the capacity to manage multiple priorities
Analytical mindset with attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and retail management systems
Comfortable working in a fast-paced sports, entertainment, or event-driven environment
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and matchdays as needed 

Preferred Qualifications 

Experience working in sports, live events, apparel, or high-volume retail environments 
Experience managing multiple retail channels, including ecommerce operations 
Familiarity with Shopify or other ecommerce platforms 
Experience executing merchandise launches and promotional campaigns 
Knowledge of fulfillment operations, inventory planning, and omnichannel retail strategies 

Benefits & Compensation 

Full-time salaried position 
Salary range of $60,000-$70,000, based on experience 
Opportunity for career growth within a rapidly expanding retail organization 
Collaborative, team-oriented, and energetic work environment 
Hands-on involvement in sports, entertainment, and event retail operations 

This version shifts the role to roughly 75% retail operations / 25% ecommerce, making ecommerce a preferred skillset rather than the core function of the position.