Chief of Retail Operations

-Hybrid / Premium Japanese Brand / Retail Operation - A Japanese brand is currently recruiting a Chief of Retail Operations to join its London office as part of its European expansion. This role will be responsible for translating business strategies into operational execution, improving retail processes, supporting store expansion projects, and ensuring a premium customer experience. The ideal candidate should have 3+ years’ team management experience in retail operations. (Ref: YC47678 - Please include this when making any enquiries.)

Main Responsibilities: Translate CEO strategy into practical operational execution across retail, projects, and business workflows Build and continuously improve operational processes, manuals, SOPs, and project management frameworks Manage ordering, inventory, logistics, and import processes in coordination with the Japan HQ Drive operational efficiency through data analysis using Google Sheets, spreadsheets, digital tools, and AI tools Identify operational issues, analyse root causes, and implement practical solutions to improve accuracy and prevent recurring issues Lead store operations, including staff training, mentoring, and standardisation of retail procedures Support new store openings, retail expansion projects, and initiatives to improve sales performance and customer satisfaction

Ideal Candidate: 3+ years’ team management experience in retail operations Strong operational mindset with a structured and detail-oriented approach to work Experience creating, improving, and implementing practical operational processes and procedures Comfortable working hands-on with daily operations and customer-facing retail activities Strong ownership and ability to manage tasks and projects through to completion Strong data analysis skills and confidence using digital tools such as Shopify, Google Sheets/Spreadsheets, Slack, and AI tools Business-level English communication skills with experience in Japanese-related retail environments

Desirable: Business-level Japanese speaking ability Experience supporting senior leadership, such as CEO support or Chief of Staff responsibilities Experience in startup, technology, or fast-growing business environments Experience in premium, luxury, lifestyle, design, ceramics, crafts, or high-quality consumer products

Conditions: Location: Central London Working Style: hybrid working available Salary: £45,000–£50,000 per annum depending on experience Job Type: permanent, full-time Working Hours: 9:00–18:00 from Monday to Friday Start: ASAP Benefits: staff discount, pension scheme

Visa Support: No

All applicants for the Chief of Retail Operations position must have the right to work in the UK without any restrictions as the Company is not able to offer visa support. We regret that we cannot accept applications from Working Holiday, Graduate or Student visa holders. If your application is successful, you will be contacted within two business days. We regret that due to the high volume of applications we receive we cannot provide feedback on individual CVs.