Overview
The Head of Retail will oversee the retail operations of a prominent retail group with multiple stores throughout Ireland. This key leadership role requires a blend of strategic vision, operational excellence, and strong people management skills. The successful candidate will drive the growth and profitability of the business, ensuring an exceptional customer experience across all locations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership
Develop and implement a comprehensive retail strategy aligned with the company's overall business goals.
Identify market trends and opportunities, positioning the company to capitalise on emerging retail trends and consumer preferences.
Work closely with the senior management team to shape the strategic direction of the business.
2. Operational Management
Oversee day-to-day operations of all retail stores, ensuring efficient and effective management practices.
Develop and monitor KPIs to track store performance, sales targets, and operational efficiency.
Implement best practices in inventory management, store layout, visual merchandising, and customer service.
3. People Management
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of area and store managers, fostering a high-performance culture.
Promote a coaching and development-focused environment, encouraging continuous learning and improvement.
Manage talent acquisition, retention, and succession planning to build a strong and capable team.
4. Financial Oversight
Develop and manage budgets for the retail division, ensuring profitability and cost-effectiveness.
Analyse financial reports, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions.
Negotiate with suppliers and vendors to optimize cost and supply chain efficiency.
5. Customer Experience
Champion a customer-centric approach, ensuring an exceptional shopping experience across all stores.
Utilize customer feedback and market research to continually refine and enhance the retail offering.
Develop initiatives to drive customer loyalty and repeat business.
6. Stakeholder Engagement
Act as the primary point of contact for external stakeholders, including franchise partners, suppliers, and other business partners.
Collaborate with marketing, product development, and other departments to align retail strategies with broader company initiatives.
7. Compliance and Risk Management
Ensure all retail operations comply with relevant laws and regulations.
Implement risk management strategies to safeguard the business against operational and financial risks.
Personal Specification
Education and Experience:
A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, or a related field; an MBA or equivalent is highly desirable.
At least 10 years of experience in a senior retail management role, with a proven track record in an area, regional, or operational capacity within a fashion, department store, or franchise multi-site environment.
Skills and Competencies:
Leadership and People Management: Demonstrated ability to lead large teams, with a focus on coaching, mentoring, and developing talent.
Commercial Acumen: Strong understanding of retail business dynamics, including financial management, merchandising, and sales strategies.
Operational Excellence: Expertise in optimising store operations, supply chain management, and customer service standards.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies that drive business growth and market positioning.
Communication Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, capable of engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels.
Customer Focus: A passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and understanding customer needs.
Change Management: Experience in leading change initiatives, with the ability to navigate and manage organizational change effectively.
Personal Attributes:
Results-Driven: A proactive approach with a strong focus on achieving targets and driving business outcomes.
Adaptability: Flexible and adaptable to a fast-paced and changing retail environment.
Integrity: High ethical standards and a commitment to transparency and accountability.
Benefits and Package
Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, pension plan, and paid leave.
Opportunities for professional development within the company.
Employee discounts and other perks.
This role offers an exciting opportunity for a dynamic and experienced retail professional to lead a prominent retail group in Ireland. The successful candidate will play a critical role in shaping the future of the business and driving its continued success.
For more information on this exciting opportunity contact Denise Brady, Managing Director in the strictest of confidence on 0876394488 or send your CV today. Full job spec will be given at interview stage.