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Brand Architect for Heritage & Streetwear Retail

Texas Railway Preservation Association · Houston, TX, USA ·

Job type:
Full Time

The Texas Railway Preservation Association (TRPA) is seeking a

Director of Brand Strategy & Retail Operations

to act as the primary architect of our public identity and commercial presence. We are looking for a "Creative Catalyst" who can blend the raw, industrial power of the SP 982 with a sophisticated, urban aesthetic that resonates with modern collectors and streetwear enthusiasts.
In this pro-bono executive role, you will bridge the gap between our "Archive" history and the modern market. You will oversee everything from our digital narrative to the development of high-end custom apparel and footwear, ensuring TRPA is recognized as a premier Texas institution.
Key Responsibilities

Brand Narrative & Digital Presence:

Develop a high-fidelity content strategy that leverages our "Blue Ambient" aesthetic to grow a dedicated global audience.
Merchandise Lifecycle Management:

Lead the design and rollout of TRPA-branded products, including our bespoke footwear lines and "Industrial Power" apparel collections.
E-Commerce Architecture:

Oversee the digital storefront, ensuring the user experience matches the quality of our physical artifacts. You will manage the transition from "product launch" to "sold out".
On-Site Content Sorties:

Conduct regular visits to our restoration sites to capture the grit and engineering of the SP 982, translating mechanical work into compelling marketing assets.
Market Trend Forecasting:

Utilize 2026 retail metrics to ensure our product drops align with current American streetwear and heritage-wear trends.
Community Stewardship:

Manage the "Voice of the Association" across all platforms, ensuring professional, authoritative, and engaging interactions with followers and donors.
Professional Requirements

Retail & Marketing Pedigree:

Proven experience in brand management, e-commerce, or luxury retail.
Creative Technical Suite:

High proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Shopify, and advanced social analytics.
Visual Authority:

A sharp eye for photography and design; you understand how to make heavy machinery look like art.
Strategic Communication:

Ability to tell a story that makes a 1919 locomotive feel relevant to a 2026 consumer.
Entrepreneurial Drive:

A self-starter who views this "Apple Garage" phase as an opportunity to build a massive commercial and cultural legacy.
The TRPA Advantage

This isn't a job where you follow a manual—you write the manual. You will have total creative freedom to define how the world sees the TRPA, transforming a mechanical restoration project into a lifestyle brand that funds the future of Texas history.
Join the TRPA. Brand the Power.
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