RETAIL DIRECTOR (KSA, KUWAIT & Bahrain)

Position Overview

As the Retail Director for the KSA, Kuwait, and Bahrain markets, you will play a pivotal role in steering FENDI’s retail operations toward unprecedented growth. Your leadership will be instrumental in cultivating a dynamic retail culture, elevating the brand’s presence, and driving a top-performing store network across these key GCC markets. This role demands a strategic visionary who can translate high-level business objectives into actionable plans, ensuring operational excellence and commercial success in alignment with the brand’s luxury positioning.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Development: Develop and execute comprehensive commercial action plans to accelerate revenue growth and market penetration in KSA, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Identify opportunities to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement while maintaining FENDI’s premium status.
• Retail Operations Leadership: Oversee the day-to-day management of boutique operations, including staff supervision, merchandise planning, and customer service excellence. Ensure seamless execution of retail strategies to deliver an unparalleled luxury shopping experience.
• Performance Management: Monitor sales performance against established budgets and targets, analyzing key metrics to identify trends and implement corrective actions. Drive accountability and continuous improvement across the retail network.
• Team Leadership & Development: Communicate a clear vision and strategy to retail teams, fostering a high-performance culture. Structure retail activities, allocate responsibilities, and ensure adequate staffing through strategic recruitment, talent rotation, and professional development initiatives.
• Collaborative Excellence: Partner with Training and Visual Merchandising (VM) teams to deliver tailored training programs for sales staff and maintain impeccable in-store displays that reflect FENDI’s aesthetic standards. Propose and implement layout adjustments to optimize commercial efficiency and customer flow.
• Store Network Management: Lead existing store network projects, including expansions, renovations, relocations, and closures. Actively participate in lease negotiations with landlords to secure favorable terms and ensure sustainable growth.
• Brand & Marketing Synergy: Collaborate with the communication and events department to execute localized marketing initiatives and exclusive customer engagement strategies. Develop and implement VIP programs and customer relations tactics to strengthen brand loyalty and enhance the FENDI experience.
• Financial & Administrative Oversight: Demonstrate strong financial acumen by managing budgets, controlling costs, and ensuring adherence to administrative protocols. Leverage retail management systems to streamline operations and enhance decision-making.

Candidate Profile

We seek a seasoned retail professional with a proven track record in the fashion and luxury sectors, particularly within the GCC markets. The ideal candidate will possess:

• Extensive Experience: 7-10 years in fashion/luxury retail sales, with 5-7 years in multi-location management of a luxury retail business, preferably within the GCC.
• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Fashion Management, or a related field.
• Core Competencies:
  • Exceptional leadership, organization, and multitasking abilities.
  • Strong customer orientation with a focus on delivering premium service.
  • Advanced administrative and financial management skills.
  • Proficiency in retail management systems and computer applications.
  • Goal-oriented mindset with a proactive and results-driven approach.
• Personal Attributes:
  • High professionalism, confidence, and self-reliance.
  • Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with a friendly and patient demeanor.
  • Impeccable personal presentation aligned with FENDI’s luxury standards.
  • Fluency in English is essential; proficiency in French and/or Italian is a valuable asset.

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for luxury retail and a track record of driving success in dynamic markets, we invite you to join our team and contribute to FENDI’s continued growth in the GCC.