At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead retail performance, develop teams, and create exceptional customer experiences.
- Company: Glassworks, an innovative fashion retailer with a focus on design and customer service.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape the future of retail and develop leadership skills.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in a growing independent business.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail management, strong coaching skills, and a passion for fashion.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Founded in London in 2010, Glassworks is an independent fashion retailer and ecommerce business built around beautifully designed boutiques, limited-run collections and exceptional customer service. We believe in creating inspiring retail experiences alongside a seamless digital journey, with new collections launching every week. As we continue to scale in the UK and internationally, we are investing in outstanding people, strong operating systems and a culture of continuous improvement.
THE ROLE
We are looking for an exceptional Retail Trading & Development Manager to lead the commercial performance and development of our retail business. Glassworks has ambitious growth plans, and this role is about building consistently high-performing retail teams and stores by developing outstanding managers, improving commercial execution and creating exceptional customer experiences. You will work closely with the Founder, Senior Operations Manager, HR Operations Lead and Brand team to increase sales, strengthen leadership capability and continuously improve how our stores trade. This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who enjoys coaching people, raising standards, launching new initiatives and turning great ideas into consistent execution. Rather than simply maintaining existing operations, you will play a key role in increasing organisational momentum while reducing founder dependency across retail. This role is ideal for someone who wants to build something exceptional. You will help shape how Glassworks grows over the coming years, developing future leaders, launching new initiatives and creating one of the strongest independent retail operations in the UK.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Drive retail sales, profitability and trading performance across all stores.
- Coach and develop Store Managers and Supervisors, building a strong internal leadership bench and succession pipeline.
- Improve management capability around recruitment, performance management, coaching and accountability in partnership with the HR Operations Lead.
- Lead the development of Visual Merchandising as a core retail capability.
- Identify and launch initiatives that increase retail sales and customer engagement, including new store openings, VIP programmes, personal shopping, community events, partnerships and other initiatives that increase customer engagement and retail revenue.
- Carry out regular store visits, providing coaching, setting clear improvement plans and ensuring consistently high retail standards.
- Work closely with the Senior Operations Manager, who provides operational support and assurance across the business, while you lead retail execution, management capability and commercial performance.
- Protect and increase organisational momentum by identifying opportunities to simplify execution, improve consistency and strengthen the retail operation as the business grows.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
- Experience leading multiple retail stores, ideally within fashion, lifestyle or premium retail.
- Proven ability to develop high-performing Store Managers and retail teams.
- Strong commercial judgement with a track record of improving sales and customer experience.
- Confident coaching and performance management skills, with the ability to have clear, honest conversations when standards are not met.
- Comfortable making timely people decisions while maintaining a positive, high-performance culture.
- A builder's mindset with the energy to improve systems, launch new initiatives and continuously raise standards.
- Comfortable working in a fast-moving founder-led business where priorities evolve quickly.
- Strong organisational skills and an interest in using AI and technology to improve productivity and execution.
Retail Trading & Development Manager - Fashion in London employer: Glassworks London
At Glassworks, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and innovative work culture. As a Retail Trading & Development Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead and inspire high-performing teams while driving our ambitious growth plans in the fashion retail sector. With a commitment to employee development, continuous improvement, and a focus on creating outstanding customer experiences, Glassworks offers a dynamic environment where your contributions will directly shape the future of our independent retail operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Trading & Development Manager - Fashion in London
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like Glassworks London!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including Glassworks London.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for Glassworks London.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at Glassworks London!
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Trading & Development Manager - Fashion in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at Glassworks London.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to Glassworks London!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at Glassworks London. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Glassworks London
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
