At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead retail operations across EMEA, driving performance and customer experience.
- Company: Join SKIMS, a pioneering brand redefining modern apparel with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, life assurance, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Based in London with travel opportunities across EMEA.
- Why this job: Shape the future of retail in a dynamic, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in retail leadership with a strong track record in sales growth.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
SKIMS is a solutions-oriented brand creating the next generation of underwear, loungewear, shapewear, and essentials. We are setting new standards by delivering technically innovative, comfort-driven products with elevated design for everybody. At the intersection of culture, innovation, and commerce, SKIMS is a global brand redefining modern apparel. Our teams are built on creativity, collaboration, and operational excellence, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive, high-performance environment where ambitious, curious, and values-driven individuals can do the best work of their careers.
The Retail Operations Director, EMEA will lead the operational strategy and execution for SKIMS' owned retail stores and concessions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This senior leadership role is responsible for driving commercial performance, operational excellence, customer experience, and scalable infrastructure across the region. Partnering closely with Global Retail, Merchandising, Planning, HR, Finance, and Store Development, this role ensures EMEA direct points of sale operate efficiently, profitably, and in alignment with SKIMS' brand standards. This leader will build and develop a high-performing regional retail team while supporting new market entry and rapid expansion.
Key Responsibilities- Regional Retail Strategy & Performance: Own retail operational performance across EMEA, including sales, profitability, inventory health, and cost control. Drive execution of regional KPIs including comp growth, conversion, ATV, UPT, shrink, and payroll efficiency. Translate global retail strategy into localized execution plans. Identify opportunities for operational improvements and process optimization.
- Store Operations & Standards: Ensure operational consistency across all EMEA locations. Implement best-in‐class SOPs and retail playbooks aligned with global standards. Oversee compliance, risk management, and health & safety standards. Lead loss prevention initiatives and inventory control processes.
- Expansion & New Store Openings: Partner with Store Development and Real Estate to support new market entry and store openings. Lead operational readiness planning for all new EMEA locations. Ensure seamless store handover from construction to operations. Build scalable infrastructure to support rapid expansion.
- Team Leadership & Development: Lead, coach, and develop regional Store Leaders and field teams. Partner with HR to drive talent planning, succession strategy, and performance management. Build strong leadership pipelines across markets. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and elevated customer experience.
- Cross‐Functional Collaboration: Partner with Planning and Merchandising to optimize product flow and inventory allocation. Align with Finance on budgeting, forecasting, and cost management. Collaborate with Marketing to support retail activations and brand moments. Work closely with Global HQ to ensure alignment on systems, reporting, and tools.
- Reporting & Governance: Provide regular performance reporting and strategic updates to Global Retail leadership. Manage regional retail budgets and expense controls. Identify risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies.
- 10+ years of retail leadership experience, including multi‐unit or regional oversight.
- Experience leading retail operations across multiple international markets preferred.
- Proven track record of driving sales growth and operational excellence in high‐growth environments.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing P&L responsibility.
- Deep understanding of customer experience and retail KPIs.
- Experience supporting rapid retail expansion and store openings.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to operate both strategically and hands‐on in a fast‐paced environment.
- Based in London with flexibility to travel across EMEA.
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
- Group Life Assurance
- Income Protection
- Critical Illness
- Pension Scheme
- Modern Health
- ClassPass
EMEA Retail Operations Director Growth & Excellence in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
SKIMS is an exceptional employer that champions creativity, collaboration, and operational excellence within a vibrant and inclusive work culture. As the EMEA Retail Operations Director, you will have the opportunity to lead a high-performing team while driving innovative retail strategies across diverse markets in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With a commitment to employee growth and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and a pension scheme, SKIMS offers a rewarding environment for ambitious individuals looking to make a significant impact in the fashion industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EMEA Retail Operations Director Growth & Excellence in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SKIMS and understanding their brand values. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission of operational excellence and customer experience. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how you’ve driven sales growth in previous roles. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to lead teams and optimise operations, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the SKIMS team and ready to contribute to their exciting growth journey.
We think you need these skills to ace EMEA Retail Operations Director Growth & Excellence in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Retail Operations Director. Highlight your experience in retail leadership, especially in multi-unit or regional oversight, and showcase any achievements that align with SKIMS' focus on operational excellence and customer experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the SKIMS brand and how your values align with ours. Be sure to mention specific examples of how you've driven sales growth and operational improvements in previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a senior leader, we want to see how you’ve built and developed high-performing teams. Share stories that demonstrate your coaching abilities and how you've fostered a culture of collaboration and accountability in your past positions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. This way, you can ensure your application reaches the right people and stands out in our system. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for joining the SKIMS team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Retail Operations Director, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of key performance indicators (KPIs). Brush up on metrics like sales growth, inventory health, and cost control. Be ready to discuss how you've driven these metrics in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires exceptional leadership skills. Prepare examples of how you've built and developed high-performing teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you fostered a culture of accountability and collaboration.
✨Understand the Brand
Familiarise yourself with SKIMS' mission and product offerings. Be prepared to discuss how you can align operational strategies with the brand's values and standards. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the brand will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
You'll be working closely with various departments like HR, Finance, and Marketing. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated across functions to achieve common goals. Highlight your communication skills and ability to manage stakeholders effectively.
