Consignment Store/Gallery Manager - School of Art and Design

The School of Art and Design in the College of Creative Arts and Media at West Virginia University is seeking an organized, motivated, fashion-savvy individual to join our team as a Part-Time Consignment Store/Gallery Manager at the student-run retail store and gallery called The Retail Lab on High Street in Morgantown, WV.

About the Opportunity

This role is perfect for someone who's passionate about second-hand fashion, art, and design, with a keen eye for trends and a flair for social media. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing daily store operations, managing consignment inventory, and driving our store's online presence. A successful applicant will submit a resume, a cover letter explaining why they are a great fit for this role, and examples of their social media work.

What You'll Do

Store Management:

• Oversee daily operations of the store/gallery, ensuring a welcoming and organized shopping environment.
• Manage the intake, pricing, and display of consignment items, maintaining high standards of quality and presentation.
• Provide excellent customer service, assisting shoppers with their purchases and consignors with their inquiries.
• Handle point of sale operations, including sales transactions, returns, and end-of-day reconciliation.
• Train and supervise part-time staff, ensuring that all student workers understand store policies and procedures.

Inventory Management:

• Maintain accurate records of consigned items, including tracking inventory levels and coordinating with consignors regarding the status of their items.
• Organize and manage inventory turnover, rotating stock to ensure a fresh selection of merchandise.

Social Media Management:

• Develop and execute a content calendar for social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and others as appropriate.
• Create engaging, fashion-forward content showcasing new arrivals, store promotions, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the store.
• Monitor social media engagement, responding to customer inquiries and comments in a timely and professional manner.

• Collaborate with local influencers and fashion/art bloggers to promote the store and increase its online presence.

• Analyze social media metrics to measure the effectiveness of campaigns and adjust strategies as needed.

Marketing & Community Engagement:

• Plan and execute in-store events, pop-ups, and promotions to drive foot traffic and build community relationships.
• Network with local businesses and organizations to create partnerships that enhance the store's visibility and appeal.

Pay Grade: 16

Length of Assignment: 10 Months

Work Hours: 25 hours per week

• Bachelor's degree in a related field; OR any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

• A minimum of two to three (2-3) years of increasingly responsible experience involving:

  • Experience in retail management, preferably in consignment or vintage store setting
  • Experience in social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook, with experience in content creation and community management
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.

• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional customer service orientation.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Demonstrated knowledge of social medica platforms, content creation and successful community engagement.
• Passion for fashion, art, and design, especially vintage and second-hand clothing.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-centric approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Basic knowledge of point-of-sale (POS) systems and inventory management software.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.