At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead retail operations strategy and execution across EMEA for SKIMS' stores.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at SKIMS, a leader in the retail industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, life assurance, and a modern health plan.
- Other info: Opportunity for rapid career growth and travel across EMEA.
- Why this job: Drive commercial performance and customer experience in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years of retail leadership experience with strong financial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
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.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise:
- 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.
Benefits, Culture and Perks:
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
- Group Life Assurance
- Income Protection
- Critical Illness
- Pension Scheme
- Modern Health
- ClassPass
Retail Operations Director, EMEA employer: Job Search Place Limited
SKIMS is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, offering a dynamic work culture in the heart of London. As a Retail Operations Director, EMEA, you will benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and operational excellence, alongside comprehensive benefits such as private medical insurance and a robust pension scheme. With opportunities for rapid career advancement and the chance to lead a high-performing team across diverse markets, SKIMS is committed to creating a rewarding and meaningful workplace experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Operations Director, EMEA
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the retail industry, especially those who have experience in EMEA markets. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SKIMS and its retail operations. Understand their brand values and operational strategies. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your past experiences in driving sales growth and operational excellence. Highlight specific achievements that align with the responsibilities of the Retail Operations Director role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to contribute to SKIMS' success.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Operations Director, EMEA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Retail Operations Director role. Highlight your experience in retail leadership, especially in multi-unit or regional oversight, and showcase any achievements that align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've driven sales growth and operational excellence in previous positions, and don’t forget to express your enthusiasm for joining SKIMS.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a senior leadership role, we want to see your leadership style. Share experiences where you’ve built high-performing teams or led successful projects. This will help us understand how you can foster a culture of accountability and collaboration within our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our 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 strong leadership skills, so think about examples that highlight your ability to lead and develop teams. Prepare stories that showcase how you've built high-performing teams and fostered a culture of accountability and collaboration.
✨Understand the Brand
Familiarise yourself with SKIMS' brand values and operational standards. Be prepared to discuss how you would align regional operations with global strategies while also tailoring them to local markets. This shows you're not just a fit for the role but also for the company culture.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this position involves working closely with various departments, think about your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Have examples ready that illustrate how you've partnered with teams like HR, Finance, and Marketing to achieve common goals.
