Head of Stores (Confidential)

We are partnering with a high-growth, for-profit retail organization to identify a Head of Stores to lead and scale a multi-unit store portfolio in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment. This is a senior leadership role with full ownership of store-level sales, profitability, and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and hold accountable a multi-layered field organization including Regional/District Managers and Store Leaders
• Build a performance-driven culture with clear expectations, strong accountability, and a focus on results
• Read and interpret P&Ls at a detailed level and translate insights into clear direction for the field
• Analyze business performance and take immediate action to improve comp sales, margin, and overall store results
• Own and manage key performance indicators including sales, margin, payroll, shrink, and store productivity
• Identify underperforming stores and markets and lead targeted turnaround efforts with urgency
• Lead integration of newly acquired store groups, quickly stabilizing operations and embedding company culture, standards, and accountability
• Partner closely with Merchandising and Supply Chain to ensure strong product flow and in-store execution
• Ensure consistent execution of merchandising, pricing, and in-store standards across all locations
• Provide direct, actionable feedback from the field to influence assortment, pricing, and allocation decisions
• Collaborate with HR on hiring, retention, performance management, talent development, and succession planning
• Reinforce a strong, value-driven customer experience across the store fleet
• Drive disciplined store execution, communication, and routines while enforcing core operational standards

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive retail leadership experience
• Significant multi-unit leadership experience at Director, Regional, or VP level
• Strong apparel retail background required
• Proven track record of driving sales and profit in a high-volume retail environment
• Experience leading geographically dispersed store teams

Skills & Experience

• Strong financial acumen with the ability to read and act on P&Ls, payroll, and productivity metrics
• Deep understanding of store economics including labor modeling, margin management, and cost control
• Ability to quickly diagnose performance issues and implement practical, results-oriented solutions
• Strong leadership presence with a bias for action and accountability
• Excellent communication and team-building skills
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-expectation, performance-driven environment