Director of Merchandising and Retail Development

At Horizon Hobby, we inspire dreams and help build memories! Our company is the leader in the global Radio Control industry, celebrating 40 years in 2025! We offer tremendous opportunities for growth and development and a full array of benefits including discounts on our products! We are currently hiring for a Director of Merchandising and Retail Development! This is a full-time, on-site position at our Champaign, IL location. Working hours are Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. Typical pay for this position is $120,000-$130,000 annually. The final offer for this position will be based on the unique experience and qualifications of the candidate selected. This position may also be eligible for a leadership bonus not included in the base pay range. We are seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial Director of Merchandising & Retail Development to lead the strategy, execution, and evolution of our consumer merchandising and retail initiatives. This role sits at the intersection of product presentation, retail experience, and go-to-market execution for premium radio control (RC) hobby products—including aircraft, cars, trucks, boats, transmitters, and accessories. This leader will own merchandising strategy across packaging, in-store presentation, and channel programs, while also spearheading the development of our first owned-and-operated retail store pilot. The role will partner closely with Brand Management and Sales Channel leaders to build and lead a newly created Retail Operations & Development function. Key Responsibilities Merchandising Strategy & Execution Lead end-to-end merchandising strategy for RC product categories, ensuring best-in-class presentation across all consumer touchpoints Oversee product presentation, including packaging design, box art, and visual storytelling that reflects premium brand positioning Develop and implement in-store merchandising standards, fixtures, and planograms for retail partners Create and manage B2B merchandising programs to support wholesale and specialty retail channels Retail Development & Store Operations Lead the planning, design, and execution of a brick-and-mortar retail pilot location, from concept to grand opening Own the full lifecycle of store development: site scoping, layout design, vendor coordination, buildout, merchandising setup, and launch Establish operational standards, processes, and KPIs for retail performance Build and scale the Retail Operations & Development function, laying the foundation for future expansion Cross-Functional Leadership Partner with Brand Managers to align product positioning, launches, and storytelling Collaborate with Sales Channel Leaders to ensure merchandising strategies drive conversion and channel growth Work with product development, marketing, and supply chain teams to deliver cohesive end-to-end consumer experience Team Building & Leadership Recruit, lead, and develop a high-performing merchandising and retail team Introduce best practices, tools, and frameworks for merchandising excellence and retail execution Qualifications 5+ years of progressive experience in merchandising, retail development, or related roles Proven experience across full-spectrum retail store development (concept through grand opening) Strong background in product merchandising, packaging, and in-store presentation Experience working with consumer product goods (CPG), preferably in enthusiast, hobby, or specialty retail categories Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally with product, brand, and sales teams Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to build new programs and functions from the ground up Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously Preferred Qualifications Experience in hobby, electronics, specialty retail, or enthusiast-driven product categories Understanding of B2B merchandising programs and dealer networks Familiarity with retail design, fixtures, and customer experience strategy What Success Looks Like Elevated product presentation and packaging across all channels Consistent, high-impact in-store merchandising execution with retail partners Successful launch of a flagship owned retail store pilot A scalable retail and merchandising framework that drives revenue growth and brand equity Physical Requirements Occasional lifting of office supplies and materials, up to 20 pounds. Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer. Occasional travel may be required domestically. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Benefits & Other Perks Medical, Dental, Vision HSA and FSA options Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance Life Insurance and Supplemental Life Insurance 401(k) with a company match Paid Time Off Paid Holidays Internal Rewards Discounts on Products Additional Coverage such as accident, critical, hospital and pet insurance Horizon Hobby is a progressive, innovative company and, as such, is constantly reevaluating and reinventing the processes and procedures associated with each job. The essential duties and responsibilities of this position may change at any time. In addition, employees may be asked to work on special projects or to assist with other work necessary or important to the operation of Horizon. Your cooperation and assistance in performing such additional work is expected and appreciated. Horizon Hobby, LLC is an equal opportunity and E-Verify employer Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.