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Job Description
Manager of Merchandise and E-commerce Portland Thorns FC Portland, OR Job Details $75,000 - $85,000 a year 9 hours ago Benefits Health insurance Career development plan Opportunities for advancement Retirement plan Qualifications Customer communication Customer returns handling Shopify E-commerce Supplier relationship improvement Communication platforms Online retail experience Vendor relationship management Collaborative technology platforms Digital project management boards Managing projects CRM system proficiency Productivity software Community relationship building Cross-functional collaboration Cross-functional communication Full Job Description
PORTLAND THORNS
Founded in 2012, Portland Thorns FC have set the standard for fan support and on-field success in women's soccer since its inaugural 2013 season. One of the world's most supported women's soccer clubs, Portland has led the league in attendance for eight seasons and set a new club playoff attendance record last year with 25,218 fans supporting Thorns FC in the 2023 semifinal match at Providence Park. Thorns FC have won the NWSL Championship a league-record three times (2013, 2017, 2022) and finished as runners-up in 2018. The club has made the postseason a league-high nine times and has won the NWSL Shield in 2016 and 2021.
WHO ARE THE PORTLAND THORNS?
We are the Portland Thorns. We will be the #1 women's football franchise in the world. We fight to protect the integrity of our team and to inspire our city. We are stewards of innovation…on and off the pitch. We have a storied history of winning with a championship pedigree. We believe in inclusiveness and demonstrating an authentic commitment to the community. We are diverse, multi-cultural and we take action with purpose and intent. We will relentlessly be a thorn in our opponent's side and forever be the crown jewels of Portland. We are the Portland Thorns.
THE ROLE
The Manager of Merchandise & E-commerce will play a pivotal role in the success of our merchandise business, and our overall fan experience with the Portland Thorns. This role reports directly to the Vice President, Marketing and will manage the day-to-day e-commerce operations, work with RAJ Sports leadership to execute the overall merchandise plan, and provide fan-first customer service, collaborating with vendors and our third-party logistics (3PL) partner to deliver a best-in-class shopping experience that reflects the energy and values of the Portland Thorns.
WHAT YOU'LL BE UP TO
Online Store Management:
Work with ecommerce platform to manage product listings, promotions, maintain accurate product information, and shipping/fulfillment processes.
Customer Service:
Be the first line of contact for all merch-related fan inquiries. Answer questions, resolve issues, and ensure every fan walks away feeling heard, supported, and excited to rep the team merch.
Order and Fulfillment Management:
Partner with our 3PL provider to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment, troubleshoot issues, and proactively solve shipping or inventory issues.
Returns & Exchanges:
Oversee the return and exchange process with our 3PL partner ensuring seamless experience for fans.
Collaboration:
Work closely with marketing, ticketing, and community departments to collaborate on campaigns to ensure cohesive fan experience.
Inventory Management:
Oversee inventory levels to avoid stockouts or overstocks, track product orders, and work with vendors to replenish as needed.
Vendor and Supplier Coordination:
Manage day-to-day relationships with licensed merchandise vendors, assisting in placing Pos, confirming timelines, tracking shipments, and ensuring quality standards.
Seasonal Merchandise Launches:
Coordinate with marketing to create and launch seasonal collections, promotions, and special edition products that reflect key moments in the team's season.
Event Planning:
Help organize merchandise-related activities at fan events, community outreach programs, and game-day promotions.
Reporting:
Track sales performance, customer service trends, and fulfillment KPIs. Share insights and suggest improvements on fan experience, merchandise sales, and operational efficiency.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM
3-5 years' experience in e-commerce operations, customer service, or fulfillment. Preferably for a sports team, consumer brand, or retail business. Proven ability to manage vendor relationships and/or 3PL partners with attention to detail and follow-through. Empathetic and solutions-oriented approach to customer service. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficient with order management systems, ecommerce platforms (specifically Shopify), and CRM/helpdesk tools. Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment. Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Comfortable working cross-functionality and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Comfortable with a flexible schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and game days. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams, Asana, Trello, or Slack. Passionate about women's sports and committed to helping build an inclusive, values-driven organization.
BENEFITS
Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, $75,000-$85,000 Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs Opportunities for professional development and career advancement Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of women's soccer. Ready to Be a Thorn in the Best Possible Way? ! If you're ready to shape the future of the Portland Thorns, send us your application. Let's make history together! Portland Thorns FC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
