Vice President of Retail Operations

Brick Executive Search; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 250,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail firm is seeking a Director of Retail Operations to enhance operational efficiencies across 40 stores. This executive role requires 8+ years in retail operations, focusing on inventory management, new store openings, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will possess strong process optimization skills and a deep understanding of retail technology. The position involves significant travel and offers a competitive salary.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in retail operations, preferably in fast fashion.
• Proven track record in multi-store management and new openings.
• Willingness for extensive travel; analytical mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational efficiencies and discipline for 40 stores.
• Develop and implement processes to streamline operations.
• Oversee handling of 40k+ active SKUs and vendor relations.
• Plan and support launches of new stores and operations.
• Recruit, train, and develop staff across multiple locations.
• Define and enhance customer experience and engagement.

Skills

Process optimization

Inventory systems

Leadership

Analytics

P&L management

Retail technology proficiency

Education

Bachelor's in Business, Retail Management, or related field

MBA preferred

Tools

StoreForce

POS systems

CRM

Job description

Base pay range

$250,000.00/yr - $450,000.00/yr

The Position

Director of Retail Operations

Location

Corporate Headquarters in Chicago with 50-75% travel to 40 stores

Overview

Lead operational efficiencies and discipline for the Brand's Fashion's 40 stores. Focus on store layout, inventory management (60k+ SKUs), compliance, new store openings, budgeting, loss prevention, and customer experience in a fast-fashion environment. Collaborate with regional managers and use tools like StoreForce for tracking.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Efficiencies: Develop and implement processes to streamline inventory, supply chain, and daily operations; identify cost-saving opportunities; monitor KPIs for performance.
• Store Discipline & Standards: Enforce consistent standards for store layout, merchandising, visual displays, cleanliness, and compliance; conduct regular audits during travel; oversee health, safety, and loss prevention.
• Inventory Management: Oversee handling of 40k+ active SKUs; optimize stock levels, turnover, replenishment, and vendor relations in fast-fashion cycle.
• New Store Openings: Plan, execute, and support launches of new stores, including site selection, layout design, setup, initial operations, and tech integration.
• Travel & Field Support: Visit stores frequently (50-75% time on road) to train staff, resolve issues, ensure alignment, and drive operational excellence.
• Technology Utilization: Leverage StoreForce and other tools for metrics; integrate CRM, POS systems; drive tech solutions for efficiency.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, train, develop, and motivate staff; coordinate with regional managers; provide guidance on best practices; build succession plans.
• Financial Management: Develop budgets, manage P&L, control costs, analyze financial metrics, and ensure profitability.
• Customer Experience: Define and enhance in-store customer journey, service standards, and engagement to build loyalty.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with merchandising, marketing, IT, and other teams for aligned strategies; communicate initiatives effectively.

Qualifications

• Experience: 8+ years in retail operations, preferably fast fashion or apparel; proven track record in multi-store management, new openings, and high-SKU environments.
• Skills: Strong in process optimization, inventory systems, leadership, analytics, P&L management; proficient with retail tech (e.g., StoreForce, POS, CRM); excellent communication and negotiation.
• Education: Bachelor\'s in Business, Retail Management, or related field; MBA preferred.
• Other: Willingness for extensive travel; analytical mindset; ability to drive change in dynamic, fast-paced environment; knowledge of industry trends and compliance.

Seniority level

• Executive

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Administrative, Customer Service, and Management
• Industries
• Retail Apparel and Fashion