Business Unit Manager, Minnesota

Are you a growth-oriented marketing and sales expert ready to take ownership for the commercial success of an impactful education brand?

Part of the Gopher Sport Family of Brands, Play with a Purpose is an industry leader in learning through physical activity for young children. Their innovative, high-quality products are designed to encourage imaginative play and physical activity, while tending to children’s developmental needs.

Play with a Purpose is seeking a dynamic and experienced Business Unit Manager to lead all aspects of this key company brand.

Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing, this critical position will require a strong background in marketing management, brand planning, sales growth, P&L leadership, and product planning. The ideal candidate will have experience in the PreK-12 education industry and a proven track record of growing revenues and customer count.

Major Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic marketing and brand plans to drive business growth.
• Lead sales growth initiatives to achieve and surpass revenue targets.
• Oversee the P&L for the business unit, ensuring financial health and profitability.
• Plan and execute marketing and product strategies tailored to the early childhood education market.
• Coach sales team to identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful implementation of business strategies.
• Foster relationships with key stakeholders in the PreK-12 education sector.
• Analyze market trends and customer needs to inform product planning and strategy.
• Drive initiatives to grow the customer base and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Monitor performance metrics and KPIs, adjusting strategies as needed to ensure objectives are met.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience in marketing management and growing brands.
• Strong track record of achieving sales growth and managing P&L’s.
• Experience in the PreK-12 education sector. Early childhood understanding ideal.
• Expertise in product planning and development.
• Ability to drive revenue growth and expand customer count.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, Education or related field.

Annual salary for this role is $110,000 to $135,000 and is dependent upon experience. Relocation available for qualified candidate. Gopher Sport offers a competitive compensation and benefit package, including traditional and HSA Health Insurance options, Vision, 3 weeks of Paid Time Off accrued the first year, plus 8 company paid holidays, profit sharing, 401K, a Lifestyle Spending Account, tuition reimbursement, product discounts, an onsite fitness center and so much more!

Company Background

For 75+ years, Gopher Sport has prided themselves on exceptional service, great product quality, and an unrelenting commitment to their customers. Their multiple brands offer a variety of product categories including physical education, athletics, fitness, early childhood, classroom furniture, and STEM. Gopher Sport has a fast-paced environment, a friendly culture, and a meaningful mission. The company’s long-term strength and success stem from a foundation of sound ethical principles, core values, and the dedication & excellence of their team members.

The Renaissance Network – Building World-Class Teams to Impact Education

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