About the Role
The Retail Operations Lead, North America is a pivotal role in bridging Polène’s global standards with the North American market. This person will adapt and implement HQ strategies and operational frameworks to support the existing retail network and upcoming store openings. The role ensures strong execution of company strategy, drives operational excellence, and supports a consistent brand experience by partnering closely with HQ and local teams.
Responsibilities
- Analyze retail reporting, including daily sales, KPIs, and traffic, and provide localized insights and actionable recommendations.
- Partner with HQ to follow up on global retail projects and support stores in achieving defined KPIs.
- Benchmark and adapt retail best practices from HQ and the market to elevate operations, service, and presentation.
- Collaborate with HQ Retail Operations to support the local execution of sales-driving and profitability initiatives.
- Adapt, update, and implement HQ SOPs to meet local market requirements while preserving global brand standards.
- Lead and support operational training to ensure protocols are understood and applied effectively in store.
- Refine local operational processes based on HQ guidelines, business needs, and field feedback.
- Manage local vendor relationships and contracts, centralizing purchasing and payment processes in line with company policy.
- Oversee the local execution of global standards related to uniforms, grooming, and operational tools, including associated budgets.
- Support new store openings by ensuring operational readiness across key workstreams such as tools, supplies, process setup, stock flow coordination, and store opening checklists.
- Ensure all local SOPs align with both HQ standards and local compliance requirements.
- Guarantee daily store and POS operations adhere to Polène policies and procedures.
- Plan and execute audits related to stock, staff administration, and store documentation in line with the global audit framework.
- Follow up on audit findings through corrective actions, coaching, and escalation where needed.
- Promote a strong compliance culture to protect employees, clients, and brand assets.
Requirements
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into practical, actionable, store-ready plans.
- Pragmatic and hands-on mindset, with the ability to operate both strategically and operationally.
- Strong command of Excel, PowerPoint, and digital tools.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to work effectively across HQ, stores, and cross-functional stakeholders.
- Strong organizational and project coordination skills, especially in fast-paced and scaling retail environments.
- Professional, proactive, and calm under pressure.
- High standards and strong attention to detail, with a commitment to operational excellence and brand consistency.
- Strong leadership and teamwork capabilities, with empathy and a collaborative mindset.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.
Skills
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Digital tools
- SAP knowledge is a plus
- English fluency
- French is a plus
Location
- New York City
Work Type
- Full-time
Experience Level
- Not specified
Education Level
- Not specified
Salary/Compensations
- $70,000-$85,000
Benefits
- Monthly ICHRA medical stipend
- Dental & vision insurance with employer contributions
- 401(k) plan
- Paid Time Off, including vacation and sick time
- Employee discount on leather goods and jewelry
- Commuter benefits
- Opportunities for growth within our expanding U.S. retail network
About the Company
- Founded in 2016, the French leather goods brand Polène stands out for its exceptional artisanal craftsmanship, creating timeless pieces with organic designs directly inspired by nature.
- In a context of strong growth and international expansion, Polène is structuring its operations and seeking top talent to develop deep expertise.
- The brand's distinctly artistic positioning supports the elevation of its handbag and jewelry collections, backed by 800 artisans in workshops located in Ubrique, Spain.
- Polène's story is being written with you, contributing to the adventure of expanding its retail presence and elevating the client experience across North America.
Equal Opportunity
- Polène is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful workplace, and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other protected characteristic as defined by law.
