Job Summary
Under the direction of the Finance Director, manages all day-to-day operations of the Dumbarton Oaks Museum Shop, including all procurement; merchandising; and financial and administrative functions, including selection and supervision of part time staff in the shop. The Museum Shop Manager establishes and promotes a retail vision and visitor experience consistent with the mission of Dumbarton Oaks.
Position Description
- Research, evaluate and purchase approved merchandise; ensure that all merchandise is appropriate, of good quality, and aligned with the mission of Dumbarton Oaks.
- Receive, process, and price incoming stock.
- Oversee and maintain retail Point of Sale (POS) system.
- Plan and implement biannual physical inventory count and quarterly jewelry physical inventory count. Maintain current inventory database.
- Forecast, plan, and adhere to annual museum shop budget and track daily, monthly, and annual sales and attendance figures.
- Analyze sales trends and pricing policies to determine profitability. Forecast merchandise needs for future events and seasons.
- Process and submit invoices in timely manner; reconcile purchasing card statement; work out discrepancies with vendors.
- Create and maintain inventory database. Plan and implement biannual physical inventory count and quarterly jewelry physical inventory count.
- Hire, train and supervise temporary staff to ensure highest standard of positive customer experience as well as coverage and presence at all times during store opening hours (Tuesday – Sunday, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm).
- Develop merchandising strategy and create visually enticing displays.
- Update and maintain museum shop’s web page.
- Design all shop graphics, signage, labels, and custom packaging.
- Coordinate and execute all activities related to product development and product licensing and develop customized products in conjunction with permanent as well as special exhibitions.
- Schedule, plan, and run special shop events in collaboration with relevant departments.
- Provide a high level of customer service both at the store and through phone contact.
- Monitor and purchase all office supplies, display supplies, equipment, and fixtures.
- Initiate online store development.
- Maintain professional knowledge by participating in professional societies and local activities, reviewing professional publications, and establishing personal networks.
- Perform other duties as required.
Basic Qualifications
College degree or equivalent retail experience required. Experience with tracking budget expenses; pricing; vendor relationships required.
Additional Qualifications And Skills
Museum store and/or gift shop experience and/or retail experience with a high level of personal responsibility highly preferred. Customer service focus; market knowledge; employee supervision; strategic planning; excellent verbal and written communication skills; fluency with retail POS systems; graphic design skills; e-commerce experience; creative vision and an interest in world cultures.
Experience with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and retail POS software.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 40 lbs with frequent lifting/carrying of objects up to 10 lbs.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
- Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
- Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
- Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
- Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
- Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
- Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
- Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Job Function
Finance
Department Office Location
USA – DC – Washington
Job Code
400110 Financial Associate I
Work Format
On-Site
Department
Finance
Sub-Unit
Dumbarton Oaks
Time Status
Full-time
Salary Grade
054
Union
55 – Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers
Pre-Employment Screening
Criminal, Education, Identity
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
