AVP, Retail Buying and Business Operations

Toronto, ON, Canada

Full Time

COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISES

Experienced

WHO WE ARE
Opened in 1914 and welcoming over 1.3 million visitors annually, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada's most-visited museum, ranking among the top 10 cultural institutions in North America. At ROM, we are dedicated to building and sharing global collections, sharing knowledge, inspiring learning, and fostering community engagement. As a globally recognized field research institute, ROM houses an impressive collection of over 18 million artworks, cultural objects, and natural history specimens, showcased in over 40 galleries and exhibition spaces. We are committed to creating a space where art, culture, and nature intersect, connecting people and communities to the past, present and shared future.

As we continue to work toward our goals to transform and evolve as one of the world’s foremost 21st-century museums, we seek passionate and dynamic team members who embody our mission and values.

WHO WE NEED
We are seeking an experienced AVP, Retail Buying and Business Operations to lead the retail business operations team at ROM. Reporting to the SVP, Commercial Enterprises, this role is responsible for overseeing ROM’s retail business operations as well as buying strategy, product development, and eCommerce initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in retail operations, product buying & development, supplier negotiations, revenue generation to support ROM’s operating budget targets, business analytics, ensuring that ROM’s retail offerings align with its exhibitions, curatorial initiatives, and diverse audience.
If you are an innovative retail leader with a passion for museum commerce, community engagement, and strategic business operations, this is an exciting opportunity to shape ROM’s retail experience and drive revenue growth.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

Lead and manage the retail operations team, ensuring fiscal responsibility, compliance with ROM policies, and strong performance management.
Oversee product buying strategies to align with ROM’s curatorial themes, exhibitions, and strategic goals.
Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), sales, and product margins to optimize business performance and exceed budget targets.
Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers, artists, and community-based creators, negotiating purchases through various channels, including in-person sourcing and multi-vendor platforms.
Create and produce ROM-branded and custom retail products to increase retail revenues, enhance brand awareness and support museum initiatives.
Collaborate with the SVP on product development and licensing strategies to expand ROM’s retail presence both locally and internationally.
Ensure inventory and product supply meets visitor and seasonal demand, working closely with the retail team to maximize sales opportunities.
Liaise with internal departments to ensure alignment between retail strategies and broader museum initiatives.
Oversee Shopify eCommerce operations, ensuring a seamless online shopping experience and effective backend management.
Other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING

Education & Experience:

A university degree in retail business, supply management, or a related field OR an acceptable combination of education and experience.
15+ years of progressive management experience in retail buying, business operations, or a related field.

Retail & Business Expertise:

Proven experience managing a retail business, procurement, and inventory strategies.
Strong negotiation and facilitation skills, particularly when working with suppliers and artists.
Experience developing and controlling budgets for retail store product purchasing and operations.
Knowledge of market research, data analysis, and forecasting techniques to support purchasing decisions.
Expertise in custom product development and production.

Technology & eCommerce:

Strong working knowledge of Shopify Plus and purchasing software.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and retail management tools.
Familiarity with digital retail trends and eCommerce best practices.

Leadership & Collaboration:

Exceptional communication, customer service, and project management skills.
Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor teams, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet business needs.
French language proficiency is an asset.

WHAT WE OFFER

Comprehensive benefits coverage: For permanent and full-time contract positions (conditions apply), enjoy 100 percent premium-free benefits for individuals and families, a health spending account, flexible working options (varies by position), and an Employee Assistance Program.
Worry-free retirement savings: With our pension plan, you benefit from an employer-matched Defined Benefit contribution plan, which provides predictable lifetime retirement income, survivor benefits, and early retirement options without the stress of investment decisions.
Support for new parents: Enjoy a parental leave top-up to 95 percent of your salary for 17 weeks, helping you balance work and family life.
Perks: Free ROM membership for permanent full-time and part-time staff, plus discounts to over 200 attractions through Attractions Ontario.
And more!

SALARY & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

START DATE: ASAP
OPEN DATE: March 19, 2025
CLOSE DATE: Open until filled
STATUS: Full-time Permanent
EMPLOYEE GROUP: Non-Union
SALARY: $126,561 – $148,895
SCHEDULE: 35 hours weekly
PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Six (6) months
LOCATION (hybrid): Toronto, ON

WHAT TO EXPECT IN OUR INTERVIEW PROCESS

Initial conversation: A 30-minute virtual conversation** with a Recruiter to discuss your interest in the role and ROM and how you can make an impact.
First interview: A 1-hour in-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a member of the HR team. This in-depth interview will focus on your skills and how they align with the team's and ROM's needs.
Second interview: A 1-hour in-person meeting with the Hiring Manager and relevant team members. You may be asked to present a pre-assigned case study and discuss scenarios relevant to your role. Depending on the position, you might also be given a tour of ROM and receive a preview of your responsibilities and interactions.
Third Interview: a final interview with key stakeholders.

The above-listed process may change or vary based on the nature and scope of the position.

**All virtual conversations and interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams and may be recorded. **

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE ROM

Cultural engagement: Daily interactions with Toronto's diverse culture and international visitors offer insights into social and cultural trends. We champion inclusive community programs and connections through diverse experiences.
Continuous learning: At ROM, expertise and continuous skill development are paramount. Our culture of curiosity and open-mindedness fosters growth beyond traditional career paths.
Passion & fulfillment: Our work in preserving and curating cultural narratives brings deep satisfaction. We are passionate about the arts, global history, cultural diversity, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance accessibility.
Team & culture: ROM promotes a positive workplace with collaborative, supportive teams that encourage creativity and innovation. We value new ideas and collective problem-solving.
Academic collaboration: We are committed to education, partnering with universities and providing student resources, underscoring our dedication to research and accessibility.

If you’re excited about this role, even if your experience differs from the specific requirements, we encourage you to apply. We’re keen to meet candidates who can contribute their talents to our goals, and will consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & ACCESSIBILITY
At ROM, we embrace diversity in our exhibits, communities, and teams. We encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and those who can further diversify our ideas. We are committed to equitable employment opportunities and a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

We welcome and accommodate candidates with disabilities throughout the selection process. Please contact us at [email protected] for assistance.

APPLY NOW

Apply today and help us create a collaborative, diverse, inclusive, and equitable space where creativity and learning flourish.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that all candidates receiving a verbal job offer will be subject to a background check. This includes a criminal background check and verification of professional references, and, other checks depending on the role.

#LI-Hybrid

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Do you have at least 15 years of progressive management experience in retail buying, business operations, or a related field?*

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Have you developed custom retail products or managed product licensing strategies to enhance brand awareness and revenue growth?*

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