Department Head (Women's Department Manager / Buyer)

FREEDS Women’s Department Head (Manager/Buyer)

Join FREEDS, Canada’s Largest Independent Clothing Store, and become the driving force behind our Women’s Department. FREEDS is a fourth-generation, family-owned business that has built its reputation on exceptional customer service and a strong commitment to fashion, offering carefully curated styles and expert guidance since 1929.

As the Women’s Department Head (Manager & Buyer), we're looking for someone who’s not only fashion-savvy but passionate about selling, leading from the floor, and creating an outstanding customer experience.

We’re looking for a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced retail setting—someone who supports and motivates staff, builds relationships with customers, and takes ownership of the Women’s Department’s performance, presentation, and energy. This role goes beyond buying or back-office tasks—it requires a visible presence on the floor and a passion for leading by example.

Key Responsibilities

Sales Floor Leadership

• Be the key figure and daily presence on the floor—supporting staff, engaging clients, and driving performance.
• Lead by example in delivering an exceptional customer experience.
• Mentor, train, and energize your sales team.

Buying & Merchandising

• Attend trade shows and work directly with suppliers to select trend-forward, in-demand merchandise.
• Oversee the visual presentation of the department with tasteful, on-brand merchandising.
• Monitor inventory, track performance, and ensure the right mix is always on the floor.

Marketing & Social Media

• Collaborate with our Marketing and E-commerce Team to represent the Women’s Department online, through email, and social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok).
• Contribute to styling and content that reflects the FREEDS brand.

Event Management

• Organize and lead in-store events, product launches, and promotions that enhance customer engagement and build community.
• Work with management to develop creative concepts and execute memorable brand experiences.

Business Development & Collaboration

• Meet regularly with upper management to review department performance and explore new ideas.
• Proactively present opportunities to grow the business and elevate the customer experience.

Operational Oversight

• Handle scheduling, staff coordination, and customer inquiries (in-store and online).
• Maintain strong organization and follow-through on all department responsibilities.

What We’re Looking For

• 2 years in retail clothing (buying, selling, and managing)
• A natural leader who’s confident working directly with customers and team members
• Strong sense of fashion and styling, with awareness of current trends and brands
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive
• Comfortable working in a digital environment (social media, email, e-commerce)
• Event planning and creative thinking are strong assets

Schedule & Work-Life Balance

This leadership position offers a 30–35 hour work week across five days, allowing you to manage a major department while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The schedule requires Tuesday through Saturday availability, with an occasional Sunday shift every 4–5 weeks as part of a rotating schedule among team members.

Why FREEDS?

You’ll be at the center of a vibrant, respected fashion institution—helping shape the future of the Women’s Department while working with a passionate and experienced team. If you're ready to take ownership of a department, lead from the front, and bring your vision to life on the floor, we’d love to hear from you..

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $50,000.00-$80,000.00 per year

Additional pay:

• Bonus pay

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• Store discount
• Vision care

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Every Weekend
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• Secondary School (preferred)

Experience:

• Retail management: 1 year (required)
• Buying: 1 year (required)
• Fashion retail: 2 years (required)

Work Location: In person