Vice President of Retail Operations

Brick Executive SEarch has been exclusively retained to search for a Director of Retail Operations for a 40 store lifestyle boutique of womens apparel, footwear and accessories that is in high growth mode. Many more stores to come given the very positive trajectory this brand is realizing.

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 Brands 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.