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 accomplished and strategic Associate Vice President, Retail Business Operations, to lead ROM’s retail business portfolio.
Reporting to the SVP, Commercial Enterprises, this role oversees ROM’s retail business operations, buying strategy, product development, and eCommerce initiatives.
The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in retail operations, product buying and development, supplier negotiations, revenue generation, and business analytics, ensuring that ROM’s retail offerings generate revenue that meets and exceeds targets, align with its exhibitions and curatorial initiatives, and appeal to a diverse audience.
The AVP will guide the Retail Business Operations team in creating innovative, mission-aligned product lines and sales strategies that promote ROM’s exhibitions, galleries, and brand to a broad and diverse audience, including visitors, members, community partners, and patrons.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a senior leader who combines business acumen, creativity, and a deep appreciation for culture and design.
ROM does not require “Canadian experience.” International applicants with equivalent experience are encouraged to apply.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT Lead and manage daily retail operations, including in-store sales, customer service, fiscal oversight, and business performance management.
Develop and implement strategic initiatives to increase retail revenue across in-store and e-commerce platforms.
Oversee retail buying, product development, and licensing initiatives that reflect ROM’s curatorial priorities, brand identity, and community partnerships.
Conduct market research and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), margins, and sales trends to ensure operational excellence and budget achievement.
Negotiate with suppliers, distributors, independent artists, and community collectives to source and develop compelling product assortments.
Collaborate with the SVP to expand local and international product development and licensing opportunities that enhance ROM’s global brand awareness.
Ensure product categories and storytelling align with museum-wide initiatives, digital brand standards, and exhibition programming.
Oversee Shopify e-commerce operations, ensuring strong integration between online and in-store retail experiences.
Foster collaboration among Retail Operations, Buying, and Sales teams to maintain optimal product supply and seasonal alignment.
Build and mentor a high-performing team focused on innovation, accountability, and customer satisfaction.
Perform other duties as required to support ROM’s retail growth and strategic goals.
WHAT YOU BRING University degree in Retail Business, Supply Management, or a related discipline; certification in Supply Chain Procurement is an asset.
Minimum fifteen (15) years of progressive management experience in retail business operations or a closely related field.
Proven leadership in retail operations, product development, and purchasing, with a record of achieving sales growth and profitability targets.
Strong financial acumen with experience managing large-scale budgets and analyzing performance data.
Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams, build collaborative partnerships, and drive…
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