Retail Manager (Based in London) - #1162586

Position Summary

The Retail Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operational performance of Vivaia while driving the successful execution of store expansion initiatives across London and other target locations within the United Kingdom. This role ensures operational excellence, consistency in customer experience, compliance with company standards, and effective coordination of new store openings from planning through launch.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on retail professional with strong leadership, project management, and commercial acumen, capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced retail environment.

Location: Based in London

Key Responsibilities:

1. Retail Operations Management

• Oversee daily operations of assigned retail stores to ensure efficient and effective business performance.

• Ensure all operational procedures and company standards are consistently implemented.

• Monitor store opening and closing procedures.

• Conduct regular store visits and operational audits.

• Resolve operational issues promptly to minimise disruption to business activities.

1. New Store Opening Project Management

• Lead and manage the end-to-end process for all new store openings.

• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and opening schedules.

• Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure all milestones are achieved according to the agreed launch date.

• Monitor project progress and proactively identify and resolve issues that may impact store opening timelines.

• Provide regular updates and status reports to senior management.

3. Inventory and Stock Control

• Monitor stock levels to ensure optimal product availability.

• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies.

• Conduct periodic stock takes and cycle counts.

• Analyse inventory reports to identify slow-moving and fast-selling products.

• Work closely with the merchandising and warehouse teams to optimise stock allocation.

4. Team Supervision and Support

• Provide guidance and operational support to Store In-Charge and retail teams.

• Assist in manpower planning and scheduling to ensure adequate staffing levels.

• Foster a positive and collaborative working environment.

5. Customer Experience

• Ensure high standards of customer service are consistently maintained across stores.

• Monitor customer feedback and recommend improvements to enhance the shopping experience.

• Support the execution of customer engagement initiatives and promotional campaigns.

6. Sales and Performance Monitoring

• Monitor store performance against sales targets and key operational KPIs.

• Analyse sales reports and identify opportunities to improve productivity and profitability.

• Collaborate with Store In-charge to develop action plans to achieve business objectives.

• Support the execution of sales campaigns, product launches, and seasonal promotions.

7. Sales, Performance and P&L Management

• Take ownership of the Profit and Loss (P&L) performance of assigned stores and ensure achievement of financial targets.

• Monitor store performance against sales targets, gross margin expectations, and key operational KPIs.

• Analyse sales, labour, and operating expense reports to identify opportunities to improve productivity and profitability.

• Develop and implement action plans to drive revenue growth and optimise cost efficiency.

• Review expenses, including staffing costs, store consumables, and operating expenditures, ensuring alignment with approved budgets.

• Identify risks and opportunities impacting financial performance and recommend corrective actions to senior management.

• Prepare regular financial and operational performance reports, including variance analysis against budgets and forecasts.

8. Reporting and Administration

• Prepare and submit operational reports accurately and within deadlines.

• Maintain proper documentation of audits, stock movements, incidents, and corrective actions.

• Track operational expenses and support budget control initiatives.

• Liaise with internal departments and external service providers to facilitate smooth operations.

Qualifications and Experience

• Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, Operations Management, or a related field.

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in retail operations, preferably within the footwear, fashion, or apparel industry.

• Based in London with regular travel to retail stores within the region.

• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, bank holidays