At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise daily operations for a luxury womenswear brand.
- Company: KÍLÉNTÀR, a modern African design brand with a focus on craftsmanship.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, dynamic environment, and opportunity to shape global growth.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive leaders who thrive under pressure and enjoy building systems.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced team and make a real impact in the fashion industry.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in operations or project management, preferably in fashion or luxury.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
KÍLÉNTÀR is seeking a highly organised, strategic, and solutions-driven Head of Operations to support the next phase of the brand’s global growth. Founded by Michelle Adepoju, KÍLÉNTÀR is a womenswear brand rooted in craftsmanship, storytelling, and modern African design. We are looking for someone who can think strategically, execute efficiently, lead teams confidently, and bring calm, structure, and operational excellence into a fast-moving founder-led luxury business.
The Head of Operations will work closely with the Founder and leadership team to oversee day-to-day business operations across production, logistics, fulfilment, inventory, customer experience, launches, internal systems, and cross-department coordination. The ideal candidate is highly proactive, operationally sharp, detail-oriented, calm under pressure, and able to manage both people and processes effectively. This role requires someone who understands how to build systems within a growing brand while maintaining the standards and agility expected of a modern luxury company.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and improve daily operations across the business
- Build and implement operational systems, workflows, and SOPs
- Manage timelines, team coordination, and cross-department communication
- Ensure accountability across teams, deadlines, and deliverables
- Oversee inventory movement, fulfilment coordination, and operational planning
- Work closely with production teams and suppliers to improve operational efficiency
- Support launch execution, operational planning, and project management
- Improve customer experience systems including shipping, returns, and communication processes
- Identify operational gaps, inefficiencies, and areas requiring structure
- Create reporting systems and operational oversight processes for leadership
- Reduce operational dependency on the Founder through stronger systems and leadership
- Help support the scaling of the business across Lagos, London, and international markets
Ideal Candidate
- Minimum 5+ years experience in operations, business management, project management, or operational leadership
- Previous experience within fashion, luxury, retail, creative, or fast-growing founder-led businesses preferred
- Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills
- Highly proactive with strong problem-solving abilities
- Experience managing teams, timelines, systems, and operational processes
- Able to work effectively in fast-paced and evolving environments
- Strong understanding of accountability, structure, and operational excellence
- Calm under pressure with high emotional intelligence
- Experience working across international teams or markets is highly valued
- Strong understanding of Shopify, fulfilment systems, inventory systems, or operational platforms is a plus
Location
London / Lagos Hybrid Preferred. Candidates based in London with flexibility to travel to Lagos, or candidates with experience operating across both markets, are highly encouraged to apply.
To Apply
CV, relevant experience or portfolio, and a short introduction outlining why you are interested in KÍLÉNTÀR and this role to: careers@kilentar.com. Subject Line: Head of Operations – KÍLÉNTÀR.
Head of Operations employer: KILENTAR
KÍLÉNTÀR is an exceptional employer that champions creativity and operational excellence within the vibrant fashion industry. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer a dynamic work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration, particularly in our London and Lagos locations. Join us to be part of a brand that values craftsmanship and storytelling while providing unique opportunities for professional development in a fast-paced, luxury environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fashion and luxury sectors, especially those who have experience with founder-led businesses. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching KÍLÉNTÀR thoroughly. Understand their brand story, values, and operational challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've managed teams and improved operational processes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to bring calm and structure to a fast-paced environment.
✨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 KÍLÉNTÀR team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in operations and leadership. Tailor it to showcase how your skills align with the needs of KÍLÉNTÀR, especially in fast-paced environments.
Write a Personal Introduction:In your introduction, let us know why you’re excited about KÍLÉNTÀR and this specific role. Share your passion for modern African design and how you can contribute to our growth story.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:We love proactive candidates! Use your application to demonstrate how you've tackled operational challenges in the past. Give us examples that show your strategic thinking and calmness under pressure.
Follow Application Instructions:Don’t forget to send your application to the specified email with the correct subject line. It shows attention to detail, which is crucial for the Head of Operations role!
How to prepare for a job interview at KILENTAR
✨Know the Brand Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into KÍLÉNTÀR's ethos, values, and product offerings. Understanding their craftsmanship and storytelling will not only impress but also help you align your operational strategies with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've built or improved operational systems in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how your solutions led to efficiency and growth, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Think of instances where you've successfully led teams through change or managed cross-departmental projects. Highlight your ability to maintain calm under pressure and how you foster accountability within your team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about KÍLÉNTÀR's future plans, especially regarding their expansion into international markets. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge how you can contribute to their growth.
