Operations Manager - Trafford, Manchester

At SEPHORA UK, beauty isn’t just what we sell – it’s who we are. It’s the freedom to express yourself, the thrill of discovering something new, and the power of belonging to a community that celebrates every identity. From our beginnings in France in 1969 to becoming part of the LVMH family, we’ve always pushed boundaries through creativity, innovation, and inclusivity. Today, with nearly 500 iconic brands and our own SEPHORA Collection, we’re redefining the future of prestige beauty as we continue our bold expansion across the UK.

If you’re ready to bring passion, energy, and a love for immersive retail experiences to one of the world’s most dynamic beauty markets, this is your moment to shape what comes next.

The Opportunity

As the Operations Manager, you’ll be the guardian of flawless store operations – ensuring our cash, stock and back‑of‑house processes run seamlessly, efficiently and in perfect alignment with SEPHORA’s high standards. With your strategic mindset, operational expertise and passion for developing others, you’ll lead the teams who keep the store running smoothly behind the scenes. You’ll elevate every aspect of operational delivery, from stock flow and cash management to compliance, safety and commercial readiness, enabling our store teams to deliver unforgettable customer experiences every day.

If you thrive in a fast‑paced retail environment, enjoy building structure in moments of change, and love empowering teams through great process and great leadership, this is your moment to help shape the operational foundation of our newest flagship.

What you’ll be doing…

• You’ll lead store operations, team capability and efficiency across cash, stock and back‑of‑house, including:
• Overseeing all day‑to‑day cash and stock operations, ensuring full compliance with SEPHORA policies and procedures.
• Driving operational efficiency through high standards of replenishment, cleanliness, organisation and visual presentation.
• Managing stockroom layout and workflow to optimise space, speed and productivity.
• Leading delivery processes to meet timing, accuracy and productivity targets.
• Directing cash desk operations – ensuring accuracy, security, compliance and smooth daily transactions.
• Facilitating cash‑management procedures, conducting audits and resolving discrepancies promptly.
• Maintaining optimal stock levels to prevent shortages and support strong commercial performance.
• Ensuring compliance across cash handling, returns, safety and all operational guidelines.
• Promoting safe working practices and maintaining a secure, hazard‑free environment for teams and customers.
• Leading and developing operational and cash desk teams, providing ongoing training, coaching and performance feedback.
• Ensuring effective use of SEPHORA digital tools to enhance efficiency and support personalised service.
• Managing performance of Beauty Advisors, setting goals and supporting their leadership development.
• Creating efficient staff schedules, rotas and daily plans that balance business needs with team wellbeing.
• Partnering closely with the Store Director and Customer Experience Manager on ER, payroll and resource planning.
• Working with Recruitment to onboard and attract strong talent for operational roles.
• Supporting the customer experience by resolving challenges quickly and ensuring operational readiness for exceptional service.

What you’ll bring…

• You’ll be a structured, detail‑driven and people‑focused leader who thrives in a dynamic retail environment. You will also bring:
• Proven leadership experience in retail operations, with strong cash and stock management expertise.
• Strong organisational and time‑management skills with the ability to prioritise in a fast‑paced environment.
• A customer‑focused approach with confidence handling complex situations and resolving issues.
• Experience using digital tools to enhance operational efficiency.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret KPIs and drive performance improvements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to lead and motivate diverse operational teams.
• Experience navigating ER processes when required.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and peak trading periods as needed.

Benefits

When you join SEPHORA, you’re joining a team that we truly value – and our benefits reflect that. Here’s what you can look forward to:

• SEPHORA University – receive industry‑leading product, customer care and development training to help you grow your skills and your career.
• Allowances tailored to your role and location – including shoes, lunch and more.
• Competitive pay that grows with you – including annual salary reviews based on your performance and our company results.
• Performance‑based commission tied to collective store success.
• A generous employee discount across the world’s best beauty brands.
• A paid day off on your birthday – because you deserve to celebrate!
• Access to a perks and wellbeing platform offering discounts, wellness support, and more.
• Generous holiday allowance, plus the option to buy extra days.
• And more!

Start a beautiful career with us. Together, we belong to something beautiful. SEPHORA is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace for all. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, advancement, or other employment practices. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating and fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.