At EPIC, we tell the story of how the Irish shaped the world and our retail offering brings that story to life in a tangible way. From beautifully crafted Irish products to thoughtful, story-led displays, our gift shop is a key part of the visitor experience and a driver of commercial success.

We’re looking for a Head of Retail who can combine creative merchandising, strong commercial thinking, and people leadership to deliver an exceptional in-store and online experience..

About the Role

As Head of Retail, you will combine strong commercial leadership with creative vision to deliver a retail experience that is both commercially successful and deeply connected to EPIC’s story. You will use data, insight and instinct to shape product, drive performance, and lead a team to create a shop that feels as engaging and memorable as the museum itself.

This is a leadership role, balancing strategic vision with hands-on operational excellence. Success in the role depends on strong commercial judgement, data-led decision making, and the ability to lead people and partners to deliver sustainable revenue growth.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a retail experience at one of Ireland’s leading cultural attractions - bringing Ireland’s story to life in a way visitors can take with them.

Key Areas of Impact

Commercial Acumen & Decision-Making

Lead and shape the overall commercial performance of retail, including revenue growth, margin optimisation, and average transaction value
Interpret sales data, visitor trends, and product performance to inform commercial decisions
Strong budgeting, forecasting and KPI management, with clear reporting to senior leadership
Identify and unlock new revenue opportunities across both in-store and online retail channels

Data Analysis & Stock Control

Maintain a strong and disciplined approach to inventory management, stock turns and pricing strategy
Use data-led insights to guide purchasing decisions and optimise product performance
Leverage retail systems and reporting tools to continuously refine range planning and stock mix
Oversight of efficient fulfilment and stock accuracy across in-store and online operations

Purchasing, Buying & Supplier Management

Strategic ownership of buying, product development and supplier relationships
Curate a distinctive product range that reflects Irish culture, craft and storytelling
Build strong supplier relationships and negotiate effectively to deliver commercial value
Develop long-term partnerships aligned with EPIC’s brand and sustainability values

Team Leadership & Performance

Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing retail team
Set clear goals and support the team through coaching, feedback and development
Create a collaborative, commercially aware culture focused on sales, service and visitor experience
Oversee rostering, training and capability building to support a consistently strong shop floor

Retail Experience & Brand Alignment

Shape a retail experience that enhances and extends the EPIC visitor journey
Ensure the shop’s look, feel and merchandising reflect the EPIC brand and storytelling
Work closely with Marketing, Visitor Experience and Sales to align retail with exhibitions, campaigns and events
Champion responsible and sustainable retail practices

What you bring

Experience

Significant experience in a retail leadership role (typically 5+ years), ideally within a premium, cultural or visitor-focused environment
Track record of driving sales growth and managing retail performance
Experience in buying, merchandising and product development

Skills & Strengths

Strong commercial acumen with the ability to translate data into action
Creative eye for merchandising, branding and retail presentation
Confident leader who can inspire, coach and develop a team
Excellent organisational and planning skills
Comfortable working with retail systems, reporting tools and online platforms
Passion for Irish culture, storytelling and delivering exceptional visitor experiences

If you’re excited by the opportunity to shape a retail experience that connects people to Ireland’s story and stays with them beyond their visit - while driving commercial success - we’d love to hear from you!

Location

Dublin, Dublin

Department

Retail

Employment Type

Full-Time

Minimum Experience

Experienced

Head of Retail - EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Job Description