Retail Operations Director, EMEA London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ
Retail Operations Director, EMEA London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ

Retail Operations Director, EMEA London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ

London Full-Time 80000 - 100000 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
Socotra, Inc.

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead retail operations strategy and execution across EMEA for SKIMS' stores.
  • 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 while driving growth.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in retail leadership with experience in multi-unit operations and international markets.
  • Other info: Be part of a high-performance culture that values creativity and collaboration.

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.

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 London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ employer: Socotra, Inc.

SKIMS is an exceptional employer that champions creativity and collaboration within a high-performance environment, making it an ideal place for ambitious individuals to thrive. Located in the vibrant city of London, our EMEA office offers unique opportunities for professional growth, including leadership development and cross-functional collaboration, all while being part of a brand that is redefining modern apparel. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we provide comprehensive benefits such as private medical insurance and a supportive culture that values inclusivity and operational excellence.
Socotra, Inc.

Contact Detail:

Socotra, Inc. Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Retail Operations Director, EMEA London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the retail industry, especially those who work at SKIMS or similar brands. Attend industry events and connect on LinkedIn – you never know who might help you land that interview!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for your interviews by researching SKIMS inside out. Understand their products, values, and recent news. This will show you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission of redefining modern apparel.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience in retail operations and how it aligns with SKIMS' goals. Highlight your achievements in driving sales growth and operational excellence – make them see why you're the perfect fit!

✨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 SKIMS team and contributing to their exciting journey.

We think you need these skills to ace Retail Operations Director, EMEA London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ

Retail Operations Management
Sales Growth Strategy
Operational Excellence
Customer Experience Enhancement
Financial Acumen
P&L Management
Inventory Control
Loss Prevention
Team Leadership
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Performance Reporting
Strategic Planning
Market Expansion
Stakeholder Management
Process Optimization

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 financial acumen!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about retail operations and how your background makes you the perfect fit for SKIMS. Be sure to mention any relevant experience in driving sales growth and operational excellence.

Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive performance and improve processes. Use metrics where possible to quantify your success—numbers speak volumes!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the SKIMS team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Socotra, Inc.

✨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 high-performing teams and fostered a culture of accountability and collaboration. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.

✨Understand the Brand

Familiarise yourself with SKIMS' mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their commitment to innovation and customer experience. Show that you understand their market and can contribute to their growth strategy.

✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration

You'll be working closely with various departments like HR, Finance, and Marketing. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated across functions to achieve operational excellence. Highlight your communication skills and ability to align diverse teams towards common goals.

Retail Operations Director, EMEA London Office, London, United Kingdom - HQ
Socotra, Inc.
Location: London

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