Operations Lead - Grocery/Convenience

Freshminds Interim; London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A grocery retail startup in London is seeking an Operations Lead to develop and implement the operational roadmap for their first store. The ideal candidate will have 5-6 years of experience in grocery retail operations, a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, and be comfortable working in a dynamic startup environment. This role offers a day rate of up to £650 and a hybrid work model with some site visits.

Qualifications

• 5-6 years' experience in grocery retail operations.
• Strong grounding in operational best practices.
• Blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the operational roadmap for Store 1.
• Lead on licensing, health & safety, compliance, and tech systems.
• Oversee hiring and workforce planning for store operations.

Skills

Grocery retail operations

Strategic thinking

Operational best practices

Tools

SAP

Job description

An ambitious grocery retail business is launching its first store this year. Positioned between traditional high-street retailers and premium lifestyle brands, this startup is redefining the grocery experience - combining high-quality products, hot food offerings, and cutting-edge tech in-store.

We're looking for a hands-on Operations Lead to help shape and deliver the operational blueprint for the first Store. This role is critical in laying the foundations for a scalable, high-performing retail model that will expand across London and beyond.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the operational roadmap for Store 1, aligned with long-term strategic goals.
• Lead on licensing, health & safety, compliance, and tech systems (e.g. SAP).
• Oversee hiring and workforce planning for store operations.
• Act as a strategic advisor to leadership on scalable grocery retail models.
• Collaborate closely with senior leadership and an experienced store manager already in place.

Requirements:

• 5-6 years' experience in grocery retail operations.
• Strong grounding in operational best practices
• Blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution.
• Comfortable working across HQ and in-store environments.
• Experience in startup or scale-up environments.

Details:

• Start date: ASAP
• Duration: 3 months with potential to extend
• Day rate: Up to £650Ltd depending on experience
• Location: Hybrid, central London with some site visits