Ref: YC47215

Chief of Staff (Retail & Operations Lead)

Sector Customer Service/Retail
Type Full-time, Permanent
Location London
Salary (Annual) £45,000 - 50,000 / Year
Benefits Staff discount, Pension scheme
A Japanese brand is currently recruiting a Chief of Staff (Retail & Operations Lead) to join its London office as part of its European expansion.
This role combines strategic execution as a key partner to the CEO with hands-on retail leadership, ensuring both operational excellence and premium brand experience in-store.
Ref: YC47215

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ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS: 
- (O) Eligible visa: Permanent residence, Spouse, Partner
- (X) NOT eligible: YMS, Graduate visa, Student visa, Requiring visa sponsorship
WORK TYPE: Hybrid working available
VISA SUPPORT: No
BENEFITS: Staff discount, Pension scheme
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TYPE: Permanent, full-time
WORKING HOURS: 9:00-17:00 from Monday to Friday
SALARY: £45-50K depending on experience
START: ASAP
LOCATION: Central London

Chief of Staff (Retail & Operations Lead) Main Responsibilities:
<Strategic & Operations>
• Translate CEO strategy into operational execution across retail, projects, and workflows
• Design and optimise operational processes, manuals, and project management frameworks
• Manage ordering, inventory, logistics, and import processes in coordination with HQ in Japan
• Support business expansion, including new store launches and operational improvements
• Drive efficiency through data analysis (spreadsheets) and digital/AI tools
<Retail Operations>
• Deliver premium in-store customer experience and represent the brand on the shop floor
• Communicate the value and story of Japanese traditional products to customers
• Train, mentor, and manage store staff
• Build and standardise store operations
• Support new store openings and retail expansion initiatives
Chief of Staff (Retail & Operations Lead) Ideal Candidate:
<Essential>
• 3+ years’ team management experience in retail, hospitality, or a startup environment
• Hands-on mindset with willingness to engage in customer-facing retail operations
• Strong data analysis skills and proficiency in digital tools
• Business-level Japanese and English

<Desirable>
• Experience in airlines, luxury hotels, or premium hospitality
• Startup or tech company experience
• Experience working closely with senior leadership (e.g. CEO support)
• Proven track record in driving sales performance or improving customer satisfaction


** All applicants for the (Chief of Staff (Retail & Operations Lead)) must have the right to work in the country without any restrictions as the Company is not able to offer visa support.
1 **We regret that we cannot accept applications from Working holiday, Graduate or Student visa holders.
Updated: 9 hours ago
Ref: YC47215