-Hybrid / Premium Japanese Brand / Retail Operation -
A Japanese brand is currently recruiting a Chief of Retail Operations to join its London office as part of its European expansion.
This role will be responsible for translating business strategies into operational execution, improving retail processes, supporting store expansion projects, and ensuring a premium customer experience.
The ideal candidate should have 3+ years’ team management experience in retail operations.
(Ref: YC47678 - Please include this when making any enquiries.)
Main Responsibilities:
- Translate CEO strategy into practical operational execution across retail, projects, and business workflows
- Build and continuously improve operational processes, manuals, SOPs, and project management frameworks
- Manage ordering, inventory, logistics, and import processes in coordination with the Japan HQ
- Drive operational efficiency through data analysis using Google Sheets, spreadsheets, digital tools, and AI tools
- Identify operational issues, analyse root causes, and implement practical solutions to improve accuracy and prevent recurring issues
- Lead store operations, including staff training, mentoring, and standardisation of retail procedures
- Support new store openings, retail expansion projects, and initiatives to improve sales performance and customer satisfaction
Ideal Candidate:
- 3+ years’ team management experience in retail operations
- Strong operational mindset with a structured and detail-oriented approach to work
- Experience creating, improving, and implementing practical operational processes and procedures
- Comfortable working hands-on with daily operations and customer-facing retail activities
- Strong ownership and ability to manage tasks and projects through to completion
- Strong data analysis skills and confidence using digital tools such as Shopify, Google Sheets/Spreadsheets, Slack, and AI tools
- Business-level English communication skills with experience in Japanese-related retail environments
Desirable:
- Business-level Japanese speaking ability
- Experience supporting senior leadership, such as CEO support or Chief of Staff responsibilities
- Experience in startup, technology, or fast-growing business environments
- Experience in premium, luxury, lifestyle, design, ceramics, crafts, or high-quality consumer products
Conditions:
- Location: Central London
- Working Style: hybrid working available
- Salary: £45,000–£50,000 per annum depending on experience
- Job Type: permanent, full-time
- Working Hours: 9:00–18:00 from Monday to Friday
- Start: ASAP
- Benefits: staff discount, pension scheme
Visa Support: No
All applicants for the Chief of Retail Operations position must have the right to work in the UK without any restrictions as the Company is not able to offer visa support.
We regret that we cannot accept applications from Working Holiday, Graduate or Student visa holders.
If your application is successful, you will be contacted within two business days. We regret that due to the high volume of applications we receive we cannot provide feedback on individual CVs.
Chief of Retail Operations in London employer: Centre People Appointments Careers
Join a leading manufacturer renowned for its commitment to innovation and excellence in scientific instrumentation. As a Field Service Engineer based in Manchester, you'll enjoy a dynamic work culture that values hands-on technical expertise and customer satisfaction, alongside generous benefits including business trip compensation and a supportive environment for professional growth through international travel opportunities. This role not only offers competitive remuneration but also the chance to be part of a team dedicated to delivering outstanding service worldwide.
Contact Details:
Centre People Appointments Careers Recruitment Team
