Merchandise Manager

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust USA (SWT USA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of elephants and wildlife in Kenya. For more than four decades, SWT has been a global leader in wildlife conservation, operating pioneering programs focused on elephant rescue and rehabilitation, anti-poaching, habitat protection, veterinary care, and community outreach.

Through the support of donors around the world, SWT's U.S. office helps advance these critical conservation efforts while fostering a passionate community of wildlife supporters.

Position Summary

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust USA is seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and mission-driven Merchandise Manager to oversee all aspects of our U.S. merchandise program. This hands-on role is responsible for managing inventory, order fulfillment, vendor relationships, online store operations, customer service, and merchandise marketing initiatives.

As a small, collaborative team, we are looking for someone who enjoys wearing multiple hats, takes ownership of their work, and is excited to contribute directly to a mission that helps protect elephants and wildlife. The Merchandise Manager plays an important role in generating revenue that supports conservation programs in Kenya while ensuring an exceptional experience for our supporters.

Position Details

Location: Laguna Hills, California

Employment Type: Full-Time, Hourly (40 hours per week)

Reports To: Executive Leadership

Bonus Eligible: Yes

Schedule: Additional hours may occasionally be required during peak holiday fulfillment periods.

Key Responsibilities

Merchandise Operations & Fulfillment

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the SWT USA merchandise program.
• Process and fulfill merchandise orders accurately and efficiently, with a goal of shipping orders within 24–48 hours.
• Manage Shopify and ShipStation order workflows.
• Maintain organized inventory systems and ensure accurate stock counts across all platforms.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate timely reorders to prevent stock shortages.
• Order and maintain shipping, packing, and fulfillment supplies.

Vendor & Product Management

• Manage relationships with merchandise vendors and suppliers.
• Coordinate new product orders, reorders, quality control, and resolution of damaged or defective merchandise.
• Work with Executive Leadership to develop new merchandise offerings and evaluate opportunities to retire underperforming products.
• Assist with sourcing new products that align with the organization's mission and brand.

Online Store & Customer Experience

• Maintain the online merchandise store, including product listings, descriptions, photography, and inventory accuracy.
• Respond promptly and professionally to customer service inquiries related to merchandise orders.
• Ensure supporters receive a positive and seamless shopping experience.

Marketing & Growth

• Support efforts to increase merchandise sales and visibility through digital marketing channels, including Google Ads, Amazon, and other online platforms.
• Identify opportunities to grow merchandise revenue and expand audience engagement.
• Collaborate on promotions, seasonal campaigns, and new product launches.

Team & Organizational Support

• Recruit, train, supervise, and manage seasonal or temporary fulfillment staff during peak periods.
• Provide backup support for donor inquiries and general office phone coverage as needed.
• Assist team members with organizational projects and administrative tasks.
• Provide regular updates on merchandise performance, inventory status, and ongoing projects.
• Support additional projects and responsibilities as assigned to meet organizational needs and growth initiatives.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Experience with Shopify, ShipStation, e-commerce platforms, or inventory management systems preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Comfortable working in a small, collaborative nonprofit environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Prior experience in e-commerce, retail operations, fulfillment, inventory management, or related fields preferred.
• Passion for wildlife conservation and the mission of Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is dependable, proactive, and takes pride in getting the details right. They enjoy both operational and customer-facing work, are comfortable rolling up their sleeves when needed, and are excited to be part of a small team making a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining your interest in the role and why you would be a strong fit for Sheldrick Wildlife Trust USA.

health care, 401k matching, life and disability insurance. Flexible schedule, casual work environment.

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