Description:
The Senior Specialist, Retail Merchandise & Franchise Brands is responsible for the assigned development, execution, and performance of merchandise and franchise retail programs across our Exhibition and LBE locations. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Retail Merchandise & Franchise Brands, this role will entail leading planning, selection and execution of licensed/proprietary retail and franchise brand initiatives. The role is to enhance the guest experience, drive incremental revenue and support the current and multi-year retail and food service department business plan that is assigned by the Sr. Manager, Retail Merchandise & Franchise Brands.
This is a hybrid position (3 days in the office per week). Office location is 1303 Yonge Street, Toronto.
Responsibilities:
- Develop, plan and roll out national retail programs across EXH and LBE while working cross-functionally with internal departments (National Operations, Marketing, Purchasing), and external vendors to execute the programs successfully.
- Work directly with studios, licensors and suppliers to secure exclusive, high margin and high-impact retail opportunities, while building and strengthening strategic relations to support business growth.
- Alongside the Sr. Manager, support and champion retail growth across the company ecosystem to unlock revenue opportunities and deliver a compelling, memorable entertainment experience
- Manage the franchise brands assigned (standards, product compliance, LTO’s, pricing, etc.) with internal and external partners while supporting the growth and operational success of the franchise concepts within EXH and LBE
- Maintain up to date project timelines, revenue targets and create/provide reporting to the Sr. Manager regarding effectiveness.
- Research and use current retail trends and innovations in the domestic and international entertainment markets to form educated buying decisions and programs for EXH and LBE.
- Any other assigned duties or responsibilities as determined by the Supervisor or the Company
Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree, preferably in business, retail management, marketing, or a related discipline or equivalent experience
- 5+ years of experience in retail merchandising, category management, franchise management, marketing or related fields
- 5+ years of experience with partner/vendor management
- Proven multi-year experience and the ability to manage cross-functional projects and timelines
- Proven experience analyzing data and translating insights into business recommendations
- Excellent communication (oral & written), negotiation, relationship management, and creative thinking/solution making skills
- Strong analytical and financial acumen with proficiency in Microsoft Excel and suite of Microsoft reporting tools
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to work within a fast-paced, deadline-driven work environment
- A flexible schedule that could occasionally include evenings, weekends and holidays