Product Line Manager - Hardgoods

academy; Katy (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Academy Sports + Outdoors is seeking a seasoned private label product developer/merchant to partner with suppliers, merchants, and cross‑functional teams to shape long‑term assortment strategies and drive category growth. You will build detailed product packages, coordinate testing, ensure quality, and collaborate with sourcing, logistics, and compliance to keep timelines.

A degree and 5+ years of relevant experience are required.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• 5+ years of related product development or merchant experience required.
• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to develop and execute multi‑year assortment strategies.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Experience managing product development timelines and deliverables.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, PLM, Gerber, and Adobe Illustrator.
• Ability to build strong relationships and influence partners.
• A team‑first attitude; while your core duties are your priority, you're happy to step in wherever you're needed.

Responsibilities

• Drive private label product development by partnering with suppliers, merchants, and cross‑functional teams.
• Shape long‑term assortment strategies, analyzing market opportunities, and managing programs from concept through delivery.
• Build detailed product packages, coordinate testing, and ensure quality standards are met.
• Collaborate with sourcing, logistics, and compliance teams to keep timelines on track.
• Leverage competitive shopping and customer reviews to continuously improve the assortment.

Skills

Associate degree

5+ years exp

Analytical skills

Assortment strategy

Communication

Timelines management

Microsoft Office

PLM

Gerber

Adobe Illustrator

Relationships

Team-first attitude

Education

Associate's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

PLM

Gerber

Adobe Illustrator

Job description

Who We Are

At Academy Sports + Outdoors our vision is to be the best sports + outdoors retailer in the country — but what truly sets us apart is our people. We’re a passionate, purpose-driven team that’s as committed to each other as we are to our customers.

We’ve spent over 80 years building a culture that puts people first. We believe in creating opportunities for growth, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting every Team Member’s journey. What fuels us? Our belief in the power of fun.

Here, you won’t just help customers gear up for their next adventure — you’ll launch one of your own. Whether you're starting out or leveling up, Academy is a place where fun can’t lose!

What You Will Work On

Drive private label product development by partnering with suppliers, merchants, and cross‑functional teams. Work includes shaping long‑term assortment strategies, analyzing market opportunities, and managing programs from concept through delivery. These responsibilities help strengthen category performance and support growth across the business.

Daily work involves building detailed product packages, coordinating testing, and ensuring quality standards are consistently met. Collaboration with sourcing, logistics, and compliance teams keeps timelines on track and products aligned to customer expectations. This role also brings insights from competitive shopping and customer reviews to continuously improve the assortment.

Who You Will Work With

You’ll work closely with Buying, Global Sourcing, Quality Assurance, Vendor Compliance, Import Logistics, and Brand Management to deliver high‑quality private label products.

Regular collaboration with suppliers, factories, and cross‑functional partners ensures product accuracy, cost efficiency, and strong market positioning across categories.

What You Bring

Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for sports and the outdoors.

• Associate’s degree or equivalent experience required

• 5+ years of related product development or merchant experience required

• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills

• Ability to develop and execute multi‑year assortment strategies

• Strong communication and presentation skills

• Experience managing product development timelines and deliverables

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, PLM, Gerber, and Adobe Illustrator

• Ability to build strong relationships and influence partners

• A team‑first attitude; while your core duties are your priority, you're happy to step in wherever you're needed

Work Style and Physical Requirements

• Up to 15% domestic and international travel

• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays

• Regular in‑office attendance is required

• Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties

• Ability to adhere to company policies and professional standards

Key Skills

Analysis, Organizational Development, Presentation, Communication, Process Improvement

Equal Employment Opportunity

Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate with regard to employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law.