Senior Head of Operations & Retail Transformation

Mountain Warehouse; Newport; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits package

Hybrid working: 3 days in the London office & 2 working from home

Holiday allowance

50% staff discount & 25% for family and friends

Pension scheme

Job summary

A leading outdoor retailer seeks a Senior Head of Operations & Retail Transformation to oversee global retail operations and drive efficiency improvements. The role demands proven leadership in operational excellence, cost management, and stakeholder engagement. Candidates should have a strong background in retail maintenance and health and safety compliance, along with the ability to manage transformational change. This position offers a competitive salary and a hybrid working model.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior retail operations leadership role.
• Strong background in maintenance and utilities management.
• Expertise in health and safety compliance within retail operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all retail operations globally.
• Drive operational excellence and standardisation across retail stores.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance customer experience.

Skills

Senior retail operations leadership

Retail maintenance expertise

Cost control

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Health and safety compliance

Job description

Overview

The Senior Head of Operations & Retail Transformation is responsible for overseeing all aspects of retail activity within the business, ensuring efficient operations, cost control, and strategic alignment with company objectives. This role will take ownership of retail maintenance, utilities, health & safety, ESG initiatives, and day-to-day operational excellence. Working closely with key stakeholders and directors, the role ensures seamless retail operations while optimising efficiencies, sustainability, and customer experience across global locations. The role also requires strong leadership in driving transformational change to enhance operational effectiveness and future-proof the business.

Department & Location

Department: Retail

Location: London

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all retail operations globally, ensuring consistency and excellence in service delivery.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that align with business objectives and drive efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and legal requirements across all retail locations.
• Drive operational excellence and standardisation across retail stores to enhance performance and customer experience.
• Lead transformational change initiatives to improve agility, innovation, and long-term sustainability within the retail function.

Commercial Awareness & Business Performance

• Drive commercial performance by optimising store profitability, cost efficiency, and revenue generation.
• Analyse key financial and sales data to make informed decisions that support business growth and sustainability.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance customer experience, increase footfall, and improve conversion rates.
• Ensure stores operate in a commercially viable manner while maintaining high service standards.

Cost Control & Efficiency

• Take full ownership of cost management, ensuring operational budgets are adhered to and optimised.
• Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies, negotiating with suppliers and vendors to drive cost savings.
• Work closely with finance teams to monitor and report on operational expenditure.
• Produce clear KPI reporting for retail performance, providing data-driven insights for strategic decision-making.

Developing High-Standard Retail Processes For Consistency & Cost Savings

• Design and implement high-standard retail processes that drive consistency and operational efficiency across all locations.
• Establish best practices that enhance productivity and reduce costs while maintaining high service levels.
• Ensure continuous improvement and adaptability of processes to align with business objectives.

Identifying & Improving Retail Processes & Managing Projects for Cost Savings

• Identify areas for process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer experience.
• Lead and manage various retail improvement projects, ensuring successful execution and measurable results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovative solutions and cost-saving initiatives.

Transformational Change & Leadership

• Lead transformational change initiatives that drive efficiency, innovation, and long-term retail success.
• Foster a high-performance culture focused on adaptability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Influence and inspire teams at all levels to embrace change and new ways of working.
• Act as a strategic thought leader, ensuring the retail function evolves with industry trends and business needs.

Maintenance, Utilities, Health & Safety, And Cost Control Management

• Oversee the maintenance and facilities management of all retail locations, ensuring stores operate in a safe, functional, and visually appealing manner.
• Manage utilities and energy consumption, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency.
• Ensure all stores comply with health and safety regulations and implement best practices to maintain a safe environment for employees and customers.
• Work with external vendors and internal teams to ensure smooth facility operations and swift resolution of maintenance issues.
• Take full ownership of cost management related to maintenance and utilities, ensuring budgets are adhered to and optimised.

ESG (Environmental, Social, And Governance) Initiatives

• Develop and implement ESG strategies within the retail environment, ensuring alignment with the company’s sustainability goals.
• Drive energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability initiatives within retail operations.
• Monitor and report on ESG performance, setting targets for continuous improvement.

Stakeholder & Director Engagement

• Act as the key point of contact for retail operations, liaising with directors, senior management, and key stakeholders to align strategies and goals.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to regional retail operations teams.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across global retail operations.

We Would Like To Meet Someone Who Is

• Proven experience in a senior retail operations leadership role within a global or multi-site retail environment.
• Strong background in retail maintenance, utilities management, ESG implementation, and cost control.
• Expertise in health and safety compliance within retail operations.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to drive profitability and cost efficiencies.
• Extensive experience leading transformational change and process improvements, with proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to present and influence at all levels.
• Strong commercial acumen and ability to drive efficiencies while maintaining high standards.
• Ability to develop and execute strategic operational plans in line with business objectives.
• Strong analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Experience in managing a team and developing talent within retail operations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Hybrid working, 3 days in London based office & 2 working from home
• Holiday allowance
• 50% staff discount & 25% for family and friends
• Pension scheme

Seniority level

• Executive

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management, Strategy/Planning, and Project Management

Industries

• Retail and Retail Apparel and Fashion