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- Tasks: Lead and develop retail operations across stunning gallery buildings in Edinburgh.
- Company: Join the National Galleries of Scotland, a hub for world-class art and culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and a vibrant work environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of retail while engaging with art and diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: Senior retail experience and a strategic mindset are essential.
- Other info: Applications close on August 18, 2025; be part of a team committed to inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 42938 - 48054 £ per year.
Location Edinburgh Salary £42,938 – £48,054 (pay award pending) plus generous benefits. On site. Application Deadline Monday, August 18, 2025 Job Summary
About the role
We’re excited to be recruiting for two newly created Operations Manager roles within our Trading Company, One focused on Hospitality & Events, and this one dedicated to Retail responsible for developing and leading our evolving and ambitious retail operations.
Based across four stunning, listed gallery buildings in the heart of Edinburgh, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our distinctive retail offer and delight visitors. You’ll have the vision and drive to see the commercial potential of our brand, exciting exhibitions programme and amazing world-class art collection.
With a strong commercial mindset, you’ll bring senior level retail experience and a keen understanding of both product and audience. You’ll be a strategic thinker and hands-on leader, confident in managing your team through change, identifying opportunities, and delivering measurable results.
This is a brilliant opportunity for an experienced retail professional looking for a varied role interacting with both the strategic and operational sides of the organisation. You’ll work closely with colleagues across the organisation to ensure that retail is fully integrated into the visitor experience and delivering on our strategic ambition to grow self-generated income.
You’ll oversee all aspects of our retail operation from buying and merchandising to store management, warehousing, eCommerce, and licensing. From optimising product ranges and stock levels to analysing sales data and launching new commercial initiatives, your leadership will be instrumental in making sure our retail offer is as profitable, efficient, and as audience focused as possible.
Reporting to the Director of Audience & Development, you’ll lead a skilled team, setting direction and tone to achieve excellent customer service and drive high performance across our retail activity. As part of a team committed to building our financial resilience, you will help recognise its importance in meeting our purpose: we make art work for everyone.
The closing date for completed applications is 12 noon on Monday, 18 August2025.
Need support? Contact the Talent Acquisition Team at
Want to discover more about us? Click here to explore our website.
What\’s on offer for you? Click here to see our full benefits.
Any questions? Go to our frequently asked questions here or contact the Talent Acquisition Team at
At the National Galleries of Scotland we’re committed to embedding Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the way we work. We want everyone to feel a sense of belonging and freedom to be themselves at work or at play with us. Take a look at our Equality, Inclusion and Diversity priorities and commitments for more information.
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Job Profile Job Profile document
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Retail Operations Manager employer: National Galleries of Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Galleries of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Operations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Galleries of Scotland's retail operations and their unique offerings. Understanding their product range and audience will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles to gain insights into the company culture and expectations. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed retail operations in the past. Highlight your experience in driving sales, optimising product ranges, and leading teams through change to showcase your hands-on leadership style.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in retail and eCommerce, especially within the arts sector. Being able to speak knowledgeably about industry developments will demonstrate your commitment to innovation and growth in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Operations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant retail experience, particularly in leadership roles. Emphasise your strategic thinking and hands-on management skills, as these are crucial for the Retail Operations Manager position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your vision for retail operations and how you can contribute to the organisation's goals. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved retail performance in the past.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as commercial acumen, team leadership, and data analysis. These are essential for overseeing all aspects of the retail operation and driving high performance.
Showcase Your Understanding of the Brand: Demonstrate your knowledge of the National Galleries of Scotland and its mission. Explain how your background aligns with their commitment to embedding Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in their operations.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Galleries of Scotland
✨Research the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to learn about the National Galleries of Scotland. Understand their mission, values, and current exhibitions. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Retail Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous retail management experience in detail. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led a team, improved sales, or implemented new strategies. This will show that you have the hands-on leadership skills they are looking for.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
As the role requires a strategic mindset, think about how you can articulate your approach to developing retail operations. Prepare to discuss how you would identify opportunities for growth and integrate retail into the overall visitor experience.
✨Prepare Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the organisation. This could include inquiries about their future plans for retail or how they measure success in this area.
