Head of Retail

Role overview

We are seeking a commercially focused Head of Retail to take charge of a major multi-brand retail and distribution operation based in Dubai, UAE. The role involves leading a network of more than 100 stores across the UAE, with potential responsibility in the future for Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

This is a senior, highly operational leadership position that reports directly to the CEO. You will be responsible for improving sales, profitability, and retail standards while guiding a substantial team of Area Managers and retail leaders to deliver strong execution across the business.

Compensation for this position is AED 45,000–55,000 per month.

What you will do

• Set the retail direction and oversee daily operations for a portfolio of fashion, footwear, and lifestyle brands.
• Increase revenue, protect margins, and improve profitability across a business producing more than AED 500M each year.
• Lead, coach, and grow Area Managers along with wider regional retail teams.
• Improve store productivity, commercial results, and customer experience across the network.
• Track and act on performance indicators such as sales, conversion, average transaction value, margin, stock control, and operational efficiency.
• Work with merchandising, supply chain, and warehousing teams to strengthen inventory planning and store stock availability.
• Contribute to new store launches, refurbishments, and broader operational enhancements.
• Spot opportunities to streamline retail processes and lift productivity and commercial outcomes.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on regional growth plans across the GCC.
• Build a strong, performance-led culture centered on accountability and execution.

Candidate profile

• At least 10 years of experience leading retail operations at scale.
• Strong experience in fashion, footwear, home, or lifestyle retail.
• Proven track record of managing large store networks and multi-tier retail teams.
• Commercial mindset with demonstrated success in improving sales and profitability.
• Comfortable operating in dynamic, entrepreneurial business environments.
• Solid knowledge of retail operations, warehousing, merchandising, and inventory management.
• Experience in own-brand retail businesses will be considered a strong advantage.
• Prior involvement in store openings, retail transformation, or concept rollouts is preferred.

Additional information

Location: Dubai, UAE

This role is intended for a senior retail leader who can combine strategic thinking with a hands-on approach to day-to-day execution. The business is looking for someone who can help drive performance across the existing UAE estate while also supporting expansion into additional GCC markets.