The Director of Retail is responsible for leading and executing the overall retail strategy and operations of the Sawgrass Country Club Golf Shop. This role oversees merchandising, purchasing, inventory management, financial performance, vendor relationships, and staff development while delivering an exceptional, personalized shopping experience for members and guests. The ideal candidate will combine strong business acumen, creative merchandising skills, industry knowledge, and a passion for service to ensure the Golf Shop reflects the quality, standards, and brand of Sawgrass Country Club.
Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesRetail Strategy & Merchandising- Lead Golf Shop merchandising, purchasing, pricing, and product selection.
- Develop seasonal buying plans and maintain merchandise assortments that reflect member preferences and current trends.
- Oversee visual displays, promotions, trunk shows, tournaments, and special retail events.
- Ensure all merchandise and presentations reflect the Sawgrass Country Club brand.
Financial Management & Inventory- Manage the annual retail budget, sales goals, margins, and profitability in coordination with the Director of Golf.
- Monitor sales trends, purchasing, and inventory levels to maximize performance and minimize excess stock.
- Oversee inventory records, physical counts, member charges, and vendor invoices.
Member Experience & Service- Provide an exceptional, personalized shopping experience for members and guests.
- Build member relationships and oversee special orders, personalized merchandise, gifts, and tournament merchandise.
- Maintain a welcoming, professional retail environment that reflects the Club's standards.
Vendor Relations & Purchasing- Build and maintain relationships with golf apparel, equipment, footwear, and lifestyle vendors.
- Negotiate pricing, purchasing terms, delivery schedules, and vendor support.
- Evaluate product quality, vendor performance, and profitability.
Leadership & Staff Development- Supervise, train, and develop retail staff while maintaining high standards of service and sales performance.
- Coordinate staffing and scheduling with the Director of Golf.
- Foster a positive, collaborative team environment and work closely with the Director of Golf and Head Golf Professional to ensure seamless Golf Shop operations.
Job Qualifications- Minimum of five years of retail merchandising experience, preferably in a private club, golf, luxury retail, or hospitality environment.
- Prior retail management experience with responsibility for purchasing, inventory, budgeting, and financial performance.
- Strong knowledge of golf apparel, equipment, lifestyle brands, and retail trends.
- Proven merchandising, vendor negotiation, and visual presentation skills.
- Proficiency in POS systems, inventory management software, and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong analytical, organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
- Experience with Northstar or similar club management systems preferred.
- AGM membership or relevant industry certifications a plus.
