Freelance Event Merchandising Manager (U.S. Based) - Washington D.C. Project

TAIT partners with artists, brands, IP holders and place makers to bring culture-defining, never-before-seen experiences to life. With a legacy of innovation spanning over 45 years, TAIT has grown from pioneering in rock ‘n’ roll concert staging to setting the global standard for extraordinary live events and experiences through cutting-edge technology, precision engineering, and creative design. TAIT’s 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned performers, theme parks, exhibits, and venues across the globe, including partnerships with Taylor Swift, Cirque Du Soleil, Royal Opera House, Nike, NASA, Bloomberg, Google, Beyoncé, and The Olympics

TAIT is looking for experienced Freelance Event Merchandising Managers (U.S.-based) to support a major project taking place on-site in Washington, DC from mid August to late November 2026, with remote work beginning June 2026. Travel and accommodations will be provided for on site time.

This is a temporary contract role, not a full-time staff position.

Position Purpose:
The Event Merchandise Manager oversees all merchandise operations for the event or exhibition, including product planning, inventory management, retail setup, staffing, sales reporting, and customer service standards. Responsibilities include coordinating merchandise production timelines, managing vendor relationships, overseeing point-of-sale systems, monitoring inventory levels, reconciling daily sales activity, and ensuring retail areas are visually maintained and operationally efficient. The Merchandise Manager works closely with finance, operations, and production teams to support revenue goals and ensure merchandise operations align with brand standards and guest experience objectives. This role also supervises merchandise staff and manages all on-site retail activity during event operations.

Responsibilities:

• Assist client in developing merchandise sales strategy and operational plan
• Coordinate merchandise production timelines and vendor communications alongside client
• Approve product assortments, pricing, and inventory quantities
• Manage receiving, storage, and inventory tracking processes
• Oversee retail footprint layout and merchandising presentation
• Coordinate POS system setup and payment processing workflows
• Hire, schedule, and supervise merchandise staff
• Train staff on sales procedures, customer service, and inventory handling
• Monitor daily inventory levels and restocking needs
• Reconcile daily sales reports and cash handling procedures
• Coordinate product transfers and replenishment logistics
• Resolve customer service and transaction issues
• Track sales performance and prepare operational reports
• Ensure retail areas comply with safety and operational standards
• Manage retail strike, inventory counts, and post-event reconciliation

Position Requirements:

• 3 years of event management, production, or related experience; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Past retail and merchandising experience at the managerial level.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong project management and budget management abilities.
• Highly organized with a detail‑driven, proactive approach.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Airtable, and similar tools.
• Positive, solutions-oriented attitude with the ability to work under pressure.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and irregular hours based on event needs.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams.
• Professionalism, discretion, and tact when handling sensitive information.

TAIT is an equal opportunity employer fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other protected characteristic as outlined by international, national, state, or local laws.