Retail & Operations Director

Job Title: Retail and Operations Director
Company: ME+EM
Location: London
About Us:
ME+EM is one of the UK's fastest-growing luxury fashion brands. As a direct-to-consumer business we operate in a truly omnichannel way, with an extremely successful online store, monthly mailings and stores in London, Edinburgh and concessions in Harrods and Selfridges. Our exciting growth continues in spring 2024 with the opening of our first New York store, closely followed by two further stores in New York with additional US stores in the pipeline.
At ME+EM we are an entrepreneurial, creative, and passionate group of people. We work hard, are enthusiastic to learn and aren't afraid to take risks. Everyone contributes to our success at all levels, and that's precisely what makes being a member of the team so rewarding.
Our office and stores are always busy and fast paced, but we work just as hard to make sure it's fun, with social activities and biannual parties. We pride ourselves on being approachable, supportive, and welcoming and ensure that everyone's hard work is rewarded. It takes all these things to build a strong, successful business and our door is always open to new talent ready to contribute to our growth and evolution.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Retail and Operations Director to lead our retail and store teams in both the UK and the soon to be open US stores. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in retail leadership including in the US, as well as a deep understanding of the modern omnichannel client shopping experience. This experience together with an excellent eye for detail and operational excellence, coming from an understanding of the elevated (or luxury) retail will continue to drive and inspire our store teams.
Responsibilities:
Retail Management:
We want to be known and appreciated by our clients for our thoughtful, caring approach to styling that is inclusive to all women.
Oversee the day-to-day operations of all retail stores, ensuring exceptional customer service, visual merchandising standards, and sales performance and standards. Develop and implement strategies to enhance the overall customer experience, which will increase sales and customer loyalty. Provide leadership and guidance to store managers and staff, fostering a culture of excellence, professionalism, teamwork, and accountability. Operations Management:
Monitor key performance indicators and operational metrics to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions to enhance efficiency, productivity, and the omni-channel brand ethos. Seek opportunities to streamline and optimize retail operations processes, including inventory management, supply chain logistics, and fulfilment. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, HR, finance, and IT to ensure alignment and integration of operational initiatives. Team Leadership:
Recruit, develop, and lead a high-performing retail operations team. Provide coaching and mentorship to ensure continuous professional growth and alignment with company values. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that reflects the brand's culture and ethos. Performance Analysis:
Monitor, analyze and drive key performance indicators for all retail locations. Generate regular reports and insights to inform decision-making and identify areas for improvement. Implement strategies to address underperforming stores and capitalize on successful ones. New Store Openings:
Work closely with the Property Management team to oversee all aspects of new store openings, including store design, construction, timing, and staffing. Develop and execute detailed project plans for new store launches, ensuring timely and successful openings within budget. Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of new stores into existing operations and systems and optimise new opening. Location Strategy:
Develop and implement a comprehensive location strategy aligned with the brand's vision and target market.
Develop comprehensive location strategy plans, including site selection criteria, market entry timelines, and financial projections. Analyse market trends, demographics, and competitive landscape to identify optimal locations for new stores. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure strategic alignment including with Brand, Growth, and Trading teams. Lead negotiations with landlords and real estate partners to secure favourable lease terms and agreements for new store locations. Qualifications:
Experience of management in US retail stores is essential. Retail management, preferably some in the women's luxury apparel industry and omnichannel experience essential. Proven track record of success in driving sales, optimizing operations, and leading strategic expansion initiatives. Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams at all levels. Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strategic mindset and attention to detail. Microsoft/ google Office Suite, and other relevant technology platforms. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Employee Benefits:
33 days annual leave for full time employees (25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays) A day off to celebrate your birthday. Pension Scheme Group Life and Income Protection Insurances Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Length of Service Award Refer a Friend Scheme Staff uniform for retail employees Generous Staff and Friends and Family Discount Annual Volunteer Day Cycle to Work Scheme Tech Scheme Eye Care Vouchers Real Living Wage Employer Employee led committees Social events and biannual parties Enhanced maternity and paternity package after 2 years of service. ME+EM is an equal opportunities employer committed to fostering and preserving a culture of diversity, equality, and inclusion in our workforce. As an equal opportunities' employer, we do not discriminate against applicants based on race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We believe that diversity enriches our workforce and strengthens our organisation. Therefore, we encourage minorities, LGBTQ+ candidates, and individuals with disabilities to apply for opportunities within our company. Please email [email protected] should you require any adjustments needed to take part in this recruitment process.
Please note, due to the large number of applications we receive, we can only reply to those that are successful to the next stage.
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