Gift Shop Manager / Purchasing Specialist

Gift Shop Manager/ Purchasing Specialist Position Summary This position leads retail purchasing and merchandising, including product selection, vendor relationships, ordering, inventory planning, and merchandise assortment to maximize sales and meet customer demand. The Gift Shop Manager is responsible for retail planning, budgeting, purchasing, reporting, and other initiatives that strengthen merchandise sales and support the organization’s mission. The position also oversees daily retail operations, including customer service, sales, merchandising presentation, cash handling, and team leadership. The Gift Shop Manager provides hands-on leadership to retail staff while working closely with the Tour Staff Manager and other members of the leadership team to support a welcoming, safe, and well-organized experience for visitors. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Gift Shop Operations Lead and oversee the daily operations of the gift shop, ensuring an efficient, organized, and professional retail environment and a welcoming experience for visitors. Work closely with the Tour Staff Manager to coordinate front-end operations and visitor needs, while providing primary hands-on leadership and staffing support for the gift shop. Monitor store cleanliness, organization, equipment, and facility conditions and coordinate with the Facilities Maintenance Team to address issues promptly. Identify operational challenges, develop practical solutions, and implement improvements as needed. Staff Leadership & Development Supervise, train, coach, and support staff in cashier and retail sales roles. Support clear expectations for employee performance, customer service, workplace conduct, and responsibility, and provide consistent feedback and coaching. Provide professional mentorship and guidance to college-aged and early-career employees, helping them develop workplace skills, confidence, accountability, and professionalism. Foster a positive, cooperative, respectful, and professional work environment. Sales & Customer Service Provide exceptional customer service and assist with direct sales, particularly during busy periods or when additional support is needed. Monitor sales activity and prepare accurate sales and operating reports. Partner with the Director of Marketing to develop and execute marketing plans, promotional campaigns, and sales initiatives designed to increase merchandise sales. Monitor sales trends and customer preferences to inform merchandise selection, promotions, and sales strategies. Friends of the Lost River, Inc. • 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101 Inventory & Merchandising Manage inventory levels and oversee the ordering, receiving, stocking, transferring, and returning of merchandise. Recommend new merchandise, products, and product lines to the CEO based on customer interests, sales trends, and organizational goals. Review invoices and billing documentation, resolve discrepancies, and submit invoices to the Business Administrator for payment. Maintain attractive, organized, and effective product displays and visual merchandising throughout the gift shop. Financial & Administrative Responsibilities Manage point-of-sale operations, daily closing procedures, cash reconciliation, and deposits. Maintain accurate records and documentation related to retail operations. Assist with retail budgeting, financial planning, and monitoring of sales and operating performance. Organizational & Cross-Department Collaboration Work collaboratively with other departments to support a consistent, welcoming visitor experience throughout Lost River Cave. Communicate operational needs, staffing concerns, sales trends, and other relevant information to organizational leadership. Support organizational events, programs, and initiatives as needed. Other Duties Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The successful candidate should demonstrate: Knowledge of cash handli…

View the full posting and apply