Wholesale Director in London

Our client is an internationally renowned Italian high-end furniture manufacturer. They take pride in fostering a work environment based on respect, honesty, and enthusiasm. As a brand, they exceed expectations at every stage of the process, from the initial showroom presentation and the meticulous Selling Ceremony through to final delivery and dedicated customer follow-up. This is an organisation that offers genuine opportunities to succeed, learn, and grow within a global luxury framework.

MISSION

Following a strategic restructuring and a sharpened focus on the UK and Ireland market, our client is appointing a Wholesale Director. This is a senior appointment reporting directly to the Sales Director EMEA at the headquarters in Italy. The UK and Ireland business operates via two distinct business units: Retail, which is managed through a flagship London showroom, and Wholesale/Partnerships BU. This role is dedicated exclusively to the leadership of the Wholesale and Partnership BU. The successful candidate will professionalise the wholesale strategy, manage and collaborate with a direct sales colleague, and lead a network of independent agents across two distinct brands.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide senior leadership for the UK and Ireland Wholesale business unit, and report performance directly to the Italian HQ.
• Manage the existing commercial network, which includes one direct Sales Manager (responsible for a specific brand) and a team of independent agents.
• Lead and audit the agent network to ensure effective penetration of the independent retail market for both brands.
• Oversee the management of major retailers, distributors, and key partners, ensuring high-level service and brand alignment.
• Drive the financial strategy for the division, with a heavy emphasis on accurate budgeting, forecasting, and the setting of rigorous commercial KPIs.
• Monitor performance data to ensure all sales targets are met and that growth is sustainable and profitable across both brands.
• Ensure the brand’s Italian heritage and Selling Ceremony standards are implemented consistently across all wholesale partners.

REQUIREMENTS

• Industry Pedigree: A minimum of 5 years of senior wholesale or agent management experience specifically within high-end furniture, aesthetic lighting, or high-end bedding.
• Proven Network: A deep understanding of how luxury retail partners operate, with a successful track record of managing these specific relationships for at least 5 years.
• Professional Background: Experience must be gained from a high-end manufacturer or a specialist agency dealing with the same tier of high-end retail partners.
• Agent Leadership: Extensive experience managing and leading a team of independent agents. This is a critical requirement.
• Financial Rigour: Significant experience in budgeting and forecasting, with the ability to report clearly to a global head office and hit set targets.
• Team Management: Previous experience managing a team of agents.
• Communication: Native or C1 level English with excellent presentation skills.
• Mobility: A full driving licence and a willingness to travel 4 days per week across the UK and Ireland (with 1 day working from home).

ExecutiveSurf is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. ExecutiveSurf is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.