Director Retail Consulting

This is one of the most exciting consulting firms in the country, and our most progressive client!

Role: Retail Director

Location: London

Our Client solves the most complex and critical challenges by moving quickly from analysis to action when it really matters – creating value that has a lasting impact on companies, their people, and the communities they serve. By understanding, respecting, and honouring the needs of employees, clients, and communities, Our Client actively promotes an inclusive environment. They believe strongly in the value that diversity brings and are committed to continuously enhancing their initiatives, policies, and practices. They hold themselves accountable by fostering authenticity, growth, and equity for all.

Our Client embraces a hybrid work model to provide flexibility and support work-life integration, with 3 days in the London office or client site. This model combines in-person work (at client sites or Our Client’s office) with remote working. Travel is expected in this role, though frequency will vary depending on the client, team, and project needs.

What You’ll Do

As a Director in the Retail team, you will lead client engagements and manage a team of professionals. Projects are often short, sharp, and results-focused—so a strong ability to prioritise and find effective solutions quickly (the 80/20 rule) is essential. You will also lead implementation efforts and work closely with clients to drive real change.

This role requires a strong combination of consulting experience and operational retail knowledge. You will work alongside seasoned professionals with real-world expertise to rapidly identify opportunities and critical issues. The work is complex and high-impact, demanding both rigorous analysis and pragmatic, hands-on leadership.

What You’ll Need

• Master’s degree and/or MBA with a strong academic track record.
• A degree in Business, Finance, or Engineering is preferred but not essential.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience, with a balance of 5+ years in consulting and 5+ years in the retail industry.
• Proven success implementing solutions across multiple areas of retail, such as:
• Commercial/Retail Focus: pricing/promotions, range rationalisation, direct/indirect sourcing, store footprint and labour optimisation, e-commerce improvement.
• Operating Model Focus: operating model optimisation, change management, and cost-out programmes.
• Experience leading large-scale transformation programmes as well as more tactical due diligence efforts.
• An extensive network within the UK retail industry.
• Strong grasp of business issues and the ability to communicate them clearly to both teams and clients.
• Desire to grow professionally and personally by working in high-impact, time-sensitive environments.
• Passion for achieving ambitious results.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and financial modelling skills.
• Deep passion for the retail sector and active participation in industry events or forums.
• Commitment to mentoring and leading team members within the Retail practice.
• Excellent relationship management skills with C-suite stakeholders and the ability to drive results.
• Outstanding written, verbal, organisational, and presentation skills.
• Fluency in English; additional languages are a plus.
• Flexibility to travel and work outside regular business hours when required.
• Ability to work effectively in both office and remote environments.

In addition to a dynamic and inclusive workplace, Our Client offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package.

If you would like to explore this opportunity, please apply to the advert and include your CV.

We will meet you first if you have a mix of Retail industry and consulting experience.

Thank you,

Blue Astral Team