Managing Director - Retail UK & Europe

Overview

Freedom of Movement (FOM) is a distinguished leather lifestyle brand originating from South Africa, recognized for its masterful craftsmanship, genuine narratives, and belief in growth through movement. As the brand expands across Europe, the opportunity arises for an entrepreneurial Managing Director to spearhead UK and European operations, overseeing commercial growth, retail management, and strategic market enlargement.

Key Responsibilities

• Hold comprehensive accountability for profit and loss, budgeting, forecasting, and financial outcomes of the UK & Europe division.
• Achieve targets related to revenue growth, profitability, and cash flow management.
• Manage pricing strategies, margins, and inventory performance to uphold the brand's premium status.
• Formulate and implement growth strategies tailored to the UK & Europe markets.
• Source and inaugurate new retail outlets, wholesale collaborations, pop-up events, and e-commerce channels.
• Conduct market evaluations and prepare investment proposals for executive decision-making.
• Negotiate agreements with property owners, distributors, and key strategic partners.
• Oversee UK retail operations, guaranteeing excellence in customer experience, visual merchandising, and operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with the South African Head Office to synchronize supply chain activities, ensuring optimal stock levels and inventory management.
• Represent and promote the Freedom of Movement brand ethos across all regional engagements, maintaining the leather heritage and South African storytelling.
• Coordinate with marketing to craft impactful local campaigns and partnerships.
• Comply with regulations pertinent to VAT, customs, employment, consumer law, and data privacy across various jurisdictions.
• Manage relations with legal, taxation, and advisory entities while ensuring risk mitigation and sound corporate governance.
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a high-achieving regional team, fostering a culture aligned with company values.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years in senior leadership roles within premium retail, lifestyle, or consumer brand sectors.
• At least 3 years experience with full profit and loss accountability.
• Track record of successfully scaling business operations in UK and/or European markets.
• Expertise in expanding retail footprints, wholesale, e-commerce, or multi-channel growth strategies.
• Strong negotiation skills and adept stakeholder management.
• Experience handling multiple European markets preferred.
• Exceptional strategic planning and practical execution capabilities.
• High-level communication and presentation skills, including reporting to Boards.
• Academic credentials in Business, Commerce, Retail Management, or equivalent; MBA or postgraduate studies advantageous.

Candidate Profile

• Commercially savvy with rigorous financial control.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and resilience in developing new markets.
• Expert at building relationships and negotiating complex deals.
• Passion for premium brands and delivering superior customer experiences.
• Confident decision-maker accustomed to dynamic environments.
• Authentic, cooperative, and guided by strong values.

Additional Information

This role is based in the United Kingdom with a hybrid working model requiring travel across the UK and Europe. The Managing Director will report directly to the CEO and engage closely with the South African Head Office. This position offers the unique chance to steer an established operation and play a key role in Freedom of Movement's European expansion journey.