Director of Merchandise & Licensing

Job Description: Director of Merchandise & Licensing Reports to: Vice President of Revenue & Events
About Hinchliffe Sports Partners Hinchliffe Sports Partners is a dynamic and innovative sports organization committed to building world-class soccer teams. We are excited to announce the launch of our men's team in USL League One in 2026 and our women's team in 2027 (league to be determined). We are seeking a passionate and experienced Director of Merchandise & Licensing to lead our merchandise and licensing operations
Job Description The Director of Merchandise & Licensing is responsible for maximizing revenue through merchandise sales, developing the brand through strategic licensing partnerships, and delivering an exceptional fan retail experience both in-stadium and online. This role will also oversee the Club’s third-party retail partners and league licensees, ensuring all merchandise and promotional items align with brand standards. The ideal candidate brings a blend of retail expertise, brand management and experience working in a cross-functional, collaborative environment to bring merchandise strategy to life
Key Responsibilities

• Serve as main point of contact for all revenue producing merchandise (jerseys, hats, scarves, accessories, etc.) operations, including third-party retail partners, vendors, and league licensees (USL)
• Work closely with retail partners to develop and execute a strategic merchandising plan that aligns with Clubs’ brand identities, resonates with fans, and meets revenue targets
• Collaborate with Marketing, Creative, and other internal departments/consultants to ensure brand consistency across all merchandise offerings and promotional campaigns
• Collaborate with the VP of Revenue & Events on the managment of the department’s P&L and inventory planning.
• Manage seasonal and matchday retail calendars.
• Provide support to Director of Ticketing, including procurement, fulfillment, and delivery of all promotional items, gate giveaways, member gifts, and fan incentives
• Assist in developing exclusive product collaborations with local artists, influencers, and community partners to support storytelling and elevate fan engagement
• Work with Marketing team on integrating merchandise components into the planning and execution of key initiatives through localized and limited-edition merchandise
• Ensure stadium Team Store and other points of sale showcase North Jersey Pro Soccer merchandise in premium way for best fan experience
• Monitor retail sales performance reports and retail trends to optimize product assortments, inform future merchandise planning, and identifying areas for growth
• Oversee merchandise purchase orders and vendor payments
• Flexibility to assist in ticket sales, partnerships and event sales.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Merchandise Marketing, or related field
• Minimum 3-5 years experience in sales, merchandising, product development, retail, or brand marketing – preferably in sports, lifestyle or apparel
• Strong understanding of brand strategy and consumer merchandising trends
• Proven experience managing multiple projects and vendors in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• Excellent communication, organization and attention to detail skills
• Knowledge of soccer and a passion for growing the sport is preferred
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams)
• Available to work non-traditional hours including home matches, evenings, weekends and some holidays as needed
• Fluency in English is required, and Spanish is a bonus
• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills
• Current Passaic County, NJ resident preferred

Salary Range = $80,000 to $95,000 eligibility for bonus
The information provided in this job description is intended to convey the general nature and scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. The company reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary. Employment is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable laws. The company is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status
To Apply: Please click the link to apply or submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line “Director of Merchandise & Licensing.”