At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead retail operations strategy and execution across EMEA for SKIMS.
- Company: Join SKIMS, a pioneering brand redefining modern apparel with innovative designs.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, life assurance, income protection, and more.
- Other info: Based in London with travel flexibility across EMEA.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a fast-growing global brand while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: 10+ years of retail leadership experience with strong financial acumen.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 ÂŁ 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
SKIMS Retail Operations Director, EMEA employer: SKIMS
Contact Detail:
SKIMS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SKIMS Retail Operations Director, EMEA
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current SKIMS employees on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SKIMS' values and recent initiatives. Show us how your experience aligns with our mission of innovation and inclusivity. Tailor your answers to reflect our brand's ethos!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you drive operational excellence—key for 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 your enthusiasm for joining the SKIMS team directly.
We think you need these skills to ace SKIMS 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, especially in multi-unit or regional oversight, and don’t forget to showcase your achievements in driving sales growth and operational excellence.
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 our brand. Be specific about how your experience can contribute to our mission of redefining modern apparel across EMEA.
Showcase Your Cross-Functional Experience: Since this role involves collaboration with various teams like HR, Finance, and Marketing, make sure to highlight any cross-functional projects you've led or been a part of. This will show us that you can navigate complex environments and drive results.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our culture and values!
How to prepare for a job interview at SKIMS
✨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 numbers in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires exceptional leadership skills. Prepare examples that highlight your experience in coaching and developing teams. Think about how you've fostered a culture of accountability and collaboration in past positions, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Understand the Brand
Familiarise yourself with SKIMS' mission and product offerings. Understand their approach to innovation and customer experience. During the interview, express how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their vision of redefining modern apparel.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
This position involves working closely with various departments. Be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborating with teams like HR, Finance, and Marketing. Highlight specific projects where you successfully aligned different functions to achieve common goals.