Retail Buyer & Product Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Retail team at Middlesbrough Football Club as a Retail Buyer & Product Manager. Based at the Riverside Stadium, the Retail Buyer & Product Manager will be responsible for leading the development, sourcing, pricing and performance of Middlesbrough FC’s retail product ranges, managing supplier relationships, stock levels and commercial opportunities to maximise revenue, profitability and supporter engagement across all retail channels.

THE ROLE:

• To lead the development and delivery of the club’s retail product ranges, including official merchandise, fashion, accessories and gifting, ensuring products reflect the Middlesbrough FC brand and appeal to our diverse supporter base.
• Manage relationships with existing and new suppliers, negotiating pricing, product quality and delivery schedules to maximise quality and value.
• Take ownership of product margins, pricing strategies and buying budgets, identifying opportunities to grow retail revenue, improve profitability and maximise return on investment.
• Plan and manage stock levels across all retail channels, using sales trends, forecasting and performance data to optimise availability, and reduce excess inventory.
• Identify emerging retail trends, new product categories, licensing opportunities and collaborations that can broaden the club’s retail offering, attract new audiences and generate incremental revenue.
• Work closely with Head of Retail, e-commerce, marketing and commercial teams to coordinate product launches, seasonal campaigns and key Club milestones, delivering consistent and engaging supporter experience across all channels.

CANDIDATES SHOULD: Have proven experience in retail buying, product management or merchandising, ideally within a fast-paced retail environment, with a strong understanding of product development and commercial performance. Demonstrate excellent analytical and forecasting skills, with the ability to interpret historical sales data, identify purchasing patterns and accurately forecast future demand to inform buying decisions and stock investment.

Have a strong awareness of emerging consumer trends, market developments and changing customer behaviours, with the ability to translate insights into innovative, commercially successful product ranges. Possess a strong commercial mindset, with experience managing product margins, pricing strategies and stock performance to maximise profitability and minimise financial risk.

Demonstrate excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple product ranges, seasonal buying cycles and critical delivery deadlines. Be proactive, creative and commercially curious, with a passion for identifying new product opportunities and using data-led insights to drive retail growth and improve the customer experience.

MFC is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. MFC is also committed to the safeguarding of vulnerable groups.