The posting
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
As a Sales Manager, you will lead the day-to-day performance of a high‑volume retail store, shaping how customers experience Academy Sports + Outdoors every time they walk through the doors. You will oversee both Hardlines and Softlines, translating business goals into clear priorities that drive sales, merchandising excellence, and operational consistency across all departments. Through hands-on leadership on the sales floor, you will set the standard for service, execution, and team engagement.
You will coach, develop, and inspire a diverse team of leaders and team members, building capability through training, feedback, and accountability. Using sales metrics, labor plans, and inventory insights, you will plan and adjust strategies that improve productivity and profitability while maintaining strong in‑stock and visual standards. Your role balances people leadership with execution, ensuring policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements are consistently upheld.
Who You Will Work With
You will work closely with the Store Director and fellow store leaders to align priorities, share insights, and deliver a seamless, best‑in‑class store experience. You will partner daily with Team Leads and department leaders to set expectations, problem‑solve in real time, and create an environment where team members can perform at their best.
You will also collaborate with corporate and field partners through store walks, reporting, and execution of company initiatives. These relationships help ensure your store remains aligned with brand standards, compliance requirements, and evolving business strategies.
What You Bring
Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for sports and the outdoors.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred
- Minimum of 3 years of relevant leadership or management experience required
- Demonstrated success leading departments of up to 40 team members while driving operational excellence and achieving sales targets
- Strong customer service mindset with effective communication and problem‑solving skills
- Business acumen with an understanding of sales performance, labor planning, and profitability
- Ability to interpret reports and use metrics to inform decisions and priorities
- Working knowledge of inventory systems, payroll processes, and Microsoft Office applications
- Sound judgment and decision‑making skills in fast‑paced, high‑traffic environments
- Ability to complete and maintain required certifications, including Firearms Sales and Power Industrial Truck
- Comfortably manage and audit firearm sales, ensuring all transactions meet federal and state requirements through accurate completion of ATF Form 4473, background check verification, and final approval
- 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
- Flexibility to work varying schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs
- Full-time position averaging 45-50 hours per week during peak times
- Capability to remain on your feet and move throughout the store for extended periods during scheduled shifts
- Ability to perform physical job functions such as walking, bending, reaching, pulling, carrying, and lifting items up to 50 lbs
- Capacity to complete repetitive tasks, including scanning, stocking, and folding merchandise
- Comfort using ladders or step stools to access merchandise as needed
- Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced retail environment while adapting to shifting priorities
- Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties
- Ability to adhere to company policies and professional standards
Key Skills
Customer Service, Management, Workforce Management, Driving Results, Operations
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.
