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, income protection, and a pension scheme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of retail in a dynamic, inclusive environment with growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in retail leadership with a strong track record in sales and operations.
- Other info: Based in London with travel flexibility across EMEA for exciting new store openings.
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.
As we continue to scale globally, our HQ teams play a critical role in shaping strategy, building world-class infrastructure, and driving sustainable growth across markets.
Position Summary
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
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
- Group Life Assurance
- Income Protection
- Critical Illness
- Pension Scheme
- Modern Health
- ClassPass
Retail Operations Director, EMEA employer: SKIMS
Contact Detail:
SKIMS Recruiting Team
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 with international 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 brand values. Understand their operational strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your leadership style and how you’ve driven sales growth in previous roles. Make it engaging and relevant to the Retail Operations Director position – they want to see your passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Operations Director, EMEA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Retail Operations Director role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in retail operations, especially in multi-unit or international settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about SKIMS and how your values align with ours. Be specific about how your experience can drive operational excellence and customer experience in our EMEA stores.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on quantifiable achievements. Did you drive sales growth or improve operational efficiency? Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets into the right hands!
How to prepare for a job interview at SKIMS
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Retail Operations Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key retail KPIs 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 instances where your coaching made a difference in team performance or customer experience.
✨Understand the Brand
Familiarise yourself with SKIMS' mission and product offerings. Be prepared to discuss how you can align operational strategies with their brand standards. Showing that you understand their culture and values will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
This position involves working closely with various departments. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with teams like HR, Finance, or Marketing. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and drive results across functions.