Store Manager

Role overview

This position is for a Zara General Manager, also described as a Store Lead, based in London and reporting to Nationals. The role is responsible for the overall running of a busy, high-traffic store where speed, commercial awareness and strong floor leadership are essential. It is a practical leadership role that requires balancing business results, team output and customer experience in a fast-changing environment.

Stores operate at a high tempo, with regular deliveries and shifting priorities. To succeed, you need to remain composed, decide quickly and keep the team focused, productive and motivated.

What you will do day to day

• Lead the shop floor during busy trading periods, heavy delivery activity and operational pressure.
• Set clear daily priorities and ensure they are followed through consistently.
• Respond rapidly to sales trends, stock movement and customer requirements.
• Keep the store commercially strong, well maintained and ready for customers at all times.
• Support the team through peak periods, challenges and periods of change.

Commercial performance

• Take full ownership of sales, productivity and profitability through practical, data-backed actions.
• Use KPIs and trading insight to make fast decisions and improve results.
• Execute product launches and commercial plans with pace and accuracy.
• Ensure the store stays aligned with customer demand, top sellers and current trends.

Visual standards and customer experience

• Deliver fast, effective visual merchandising that reflects the Zara brand and product offer.
• Maintain a smooth customer journey, including floor movement, fitting rooms and queue management.
• Provide visible, energetic leadership on the shop floor while supporting the team.

Operations and stock flow

• Ensure replenishment is accurate and completed on time, even when pressure is high.
• Keep the stockroom organised so products remain accessible and available quickly.
• Maintain strong standards in cash handling, security and shrink control, health and safety, and overall store presentation.
• Track maintenance issues and see them through to resolution.

People leadership and development

• Develop an engaged, high-performing team by setting clear expectations.
• Communicate in a respectful, direct and inclusive way.
• Provide regular feedback and address performance issues early and fairly.
• Recruit based on behaviour, values and capability.
• Coach team leaders using structured routines and support their growth.
• Build succession plans and consistently develop talent within the store.

Workforce planning

• Manage the hours budget clearly and responsibly.
• Create rotas that reflect trading patterns and operational needs.
• Monitor productivity closely and act quickly when performance changes.

What we are looking for

The ideal candidate will have experience leading a busy, high-volume retail store and a strong history of delivering commercial results through people. You should be comfortable leading large teams, handling performance discussions and applying solid operational discipline across stock, cash and compliance. A hands-on approach in a demanding environment is important, along with a genuine interest in fashion, products and customer trends.

Leadership approach

• Take ownership and respond quickly.
• Stay composed under pressure, especially during peak times or disruption.
• Adjust rapidly when priorities change and keep the team aligned.
• Coach and support people so they can progress.
• Lead fairly, consistently and with integrity.

Inclusion and accessibility

Zara is committed to building an inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds feel welcome and valued. Adjustments can be provided during the hiring process if needed.