Operations Director

Pioneers; London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing retail startup in London is seeking an experienced Operations Director to oversee operations across new grocery stores. The role involves leading store launches, implementing scalable processes, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The ideal candidate has significant experience in operations and supply chain management, a hands-on approach, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. This is a full-time position based in Soho, London.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in operations and/or supply chain management, ideally in retail or startup environments.
• Strong ability to design and implement scalable operational processes.
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, hands-on environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational setup for new store openings from layout planning to tech implementation.
• Build and refine operational processes to support long-term growth.
• Ensure inventory management and smooth functioning of tech systems.

Skills

Operations management

Supply chain management

Process design

Inventory management

Health & safety compliance

Job description

Overview

Our partner is looking for an experienced Operations Director to take full ownership of operations across our growing retail footprint. This role requires someone who can be hands-on when needed but also structured and process-driven enough to lay the foundation for sustainable growth. You’ll be responsible for ensuring our operations are efficient, scalable, and always customer ready.

They’re building a brand-new grocery store network — a fresh initiative still in development phase. The core idea behind these stores is to offer exclusively healthy, high-quality products, with a strong focus on thoughtful product selection.

We’re a fast-moving startup — so flexibility, ownership, and a willingness to jump in wherever needed are key. You’ll be joining a team where no job is too small, and speed matters. If you’re motivated by building from scratch, driving impact, and growing with a company — we’d love to meet you.

Responsibilities

• Store Launch & Operations: Lead operational setup for new store openings — from layout planning to stock arrival and tech implementation.
• Process Design & Implementation: Build and refine end-to-end operational processes that support long-term scale.
• Inventory & Supply Chain: Ensure inventory is moving as planned, shelves are stocked, and back-of-house systems are functioning smoothly.
• Tech & Systems Management: Own the day-to-day functioning of in-store tech and payment systems, ensuring minimal downtime.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Set and maintain health and safety standards in line with regulations.
• Team Onboarding & Training: Support training and onboarding of store staff, including process documentation and best practices.
• Travel: Regular travel required between store locations, especially during launch and setup periods.
• 3PL Coordination: Oversee/collaborate with third-party logistics partners as needed.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in operations and/or supply chain management — ideally in retail, FMCG, or startup environments.
• Strong ability to design and implement scalable operational processes.
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, hands-on environments where roles may stretch beyond their title.
• Willingness to travel frequently and be on-site as needed.
• Immediate availability is ideal.

Location

• Soho London

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management and Purchasing

Industries

• Retail