TITLE: Merchandise Manager
LOCATION: Columbus, OH (preferred) - Nashville, TN or Remote will also be considered.
REPORTS TO: VP, Marketing & Media
TYPE OF WORK: Contractor or Part-Time Seasonal.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Breakaway Group is a premiere entertainment and music festival multimedia company. We have the largest independent touring music festival in North America, spanning 12 cities over 9 months. With a focus on underserved markets, Breakaway is bringing a premium 2-day EDM/Pop festival experience with an always-changing lineup of top artists to where consumers live, work, and play.
Breakaway Music Festival is the nation’s leading independent touring music festival providing premium experiences and entertainment to music fans across the nation. Since its inception in Columbus, Ohio in 2016, the festival has expanded to multiple cities across the United States (12 in 2025) and grown into a two-day, multi-stage event. Breakaway has successfully reached music fans in cities that have traditionally been overlooked by other festivals, bringing an always-changing lineup of top artists to diverse local communities. With over 200,000 attendees in 2024 and 300,000 projected attendees in 2025, Breakaway has become a must-see event for music lovers across the country. Our festivals champion music, art, creativity and diverse community celebration in your hometown, offering invaluable interactive experiences. Leave it all behind—and BREAKAWAY.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Breakaway is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Merchandise Manager to lead all aspects of festival merchandise strategy, operations, and sales. This role is responsible for developing and growing Breakaway’s merchandise into a recognized brand, creating high-quality, on-trend products, and ensuring a seamless sales experience both online and on-site. The ideal candidate is creative, data-driven, and operational, with a strong understanding of merchandising, sales optimization, and branding within live events.
This position includes a performance-based bonus tied to merchandise sales, making it a unique opportunity for a motivated professional who thrives on driving revenue.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Brand Development & Merchandise Strategy
- Develop and execute a long-term vision to establish Breakaway’s merchandise as a lifestyle brand, beyond just festival souvenirs.
- Collaborate with designers, artists, and vendors to create exclusive, high-quality merchandise (apparel, accessories, and collectibles) that resonates with festival-goers.
- Research market trends, fan preferences, and competitor offerings to identify new product opportunities.
- Ensure all merchandise aligns with Breakaway’s brand identity and enhances the festival experience.
Sales Growth & Revenue Optimization
- Drive merchandise sales growth through creative promotions, pricing strategies, and product positioning.
- Develop and oversee e-commerce and pre-festival sales strategies to maximize revenue before the event.
- Implement innovative sales tactics on-site, including limited drops, exclusive artist collaborations, and VIP offerings.
- Work with the finance team to set revenue targets and monitor sales performance, with a focus on maximizing profitability.
- Bonus structure tied to exceeding sales goals.
Inventory & Vendor Management
- Oversee inventory forecasting, tracking, and replenishment to ensure the right stock levels before, during, and after the festival.
- Manage relationships with vendors, suppliers, and printing partners to secure competitive pricing, quality production, and timely delivery.
- Work directly with artist teams to coordinate artist-specific merchandise and ensure smooth on-site sales.
On-Site Operations & Customer Experience
- Plan and oversee merchandise booth layout, staffing, and operations to maximize sales and efficiency.
- Train and manage on-site sales teams, ensuring they provide exceptional customer service and effectively promote products.
- Troubleshoot and resolve logistical or sales-related issues in real time to ensure a seamless festival shopping experience.
- Work with marketing teams to enhance product visibility and demand through social media, email campaigns, and influencer collaborations.
Data Analysis & Post-Event Reporting
- Analyze sales data and customer insights to identify best-selling products and future opportunities.
- Prepare post-event reports with actionable recommendations for improvement.
- Continuously refine merchandise strategy based on performance metrics and fan feedback.
QUALIFICATIONS
- 3+ years of experience in merchandise management, retail operations, or event merchandising (experience in the music/events industry preferred).
- Proven track record of driving merchandise revenue and achieving sales targets.
- Strong branding and design sensibility with the ability to curate a cohesive product line.
- Experience with inventory management systems, POS software, and e-commerce platforms.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills, with experience working with vendors and suppliers.
- Ability to lift and carry merchandise boxes, work long hours during the event, and thrive in a high-energy, live-event setting.
Compensation & Perks
- Competitive salary + performance-based bonus on sales driven.
- Opportunity to build and shape Breakaway’s merch brand from the ground up.
- Work at the intersection of music, fashion, and fan engagement.
- Travel to festival locations and be part of an exciting live-event environment.
The duties and responsibilities described in this job description may not be a comprehensive list. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time and/or the scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands.