Sports Memorabilia Sourcing and Product Buying Manager
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee discounts
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
About the Role
Ultimate Autographs, a fast-growing e-commerce and sports memorabilia company, is hiring a Sports Memorabilia Sourcing & Product Buying Manager to lead the procurement of autographed memorabilia and collectible products. If you love sports, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and have a knack for strategic sourcing and supplier management, this role is for you.
You will be responsible for sourcing high-quality sports memorabilia—including helmets, jerseys, balls, trading cards, and more—while maintaining strong supplier relationships and ensuring inventory meets customer and operational demands.
Key Responsibilities
Product Sourcing & Buying
Identify and source high-quality, in-demand memorabilia and collectible products
Manage purchasing strategy to maintain optimal inventory levels across all athlete tiers (A, B, C List)
Conduct tiered purchasing analysis to prioritize high-velocity, high-margin athletes and items
Supplier Relationship Management
Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure cost, quality, and delivery targets are met
Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery timelines with suppliers
Monitor and evaluate supplier performance using weekly scorecards and quarterly reviews
Inventory Strategy & Demand Planning
Partner with inventory and warehouse teams to maintain accurate stock levels
Analyze product sales velocity and forecast future demand to inform buying decisions
Work cross-functionally with on-air talent, marketing, and warehouse ops to ensure inventory supports sales goals
Data Management & Reporting
Maintain procurement reports, dashboards, and supplier KPIs using tools like Google Sheets and Ninety.io
Assist with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for procurement and buying processes
Prepare data for quarterly business reviews and leadership updates
Athlete Signing & Show Coordination
Manage the logistics of athlete signings and industry events, including travel, shipping, and inventory prep
Travel 3–4 times per year (local and out-of-state) to oversee event execution
Operational Supplies Procurement
Purchase necessary supplies like boxes, bags, and packaging to support order fulfillment
Preferred Qualifications
5+ years in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain—preferably in e-commerce or collectibles
Strong knowledge of the sports memorabilia industry and athlete popularity dynamics
Proven experience with cost reduction, supplier negotiations, and supply continuity
Analytical and data-driven decision maker with strong proficiency in Google Workspace (especially Sheets)
Excellent communication and collaboration skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Location: In-Office, Burr Ridge, IL
Why Join Ultimate Autographs?
You’ll join a passionate, sports-loving team that thrives on delivering high-quality memorabilia to fans across the country. In this role, your sourcing and buying expertise will directly impact growth and customer experience. We’re a collaborative, agile team that values ownership, execution, and innovation.