POLENE
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, we are structuring our operations in 2026 and surrounding ourselves with top talent to develop deep expertise at every level of our organization. Our distinctly artistic positioning supports the elevation of our handbag and jewelry collections, backed by 800 artisans in our workshops located in Ubrique, Spain.
The Polène story can be written with you: join us in store and contribute to this adventure at the heart of our flagship, where a passionate team works to offer an exceptional customer experience.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Retail Operations Lead of Japan & Korea is a pivotal role in bridging Polèneâs global standards with the local market. This individual is responsible for adapting and implementing HQ strategies and operational frameworks to enhance the performance of the retail network in Japan & Korea. By partnering closely with the HQ Retail team and local boutique staff, the manager ensures seamless execution of corporate strategy, driving operational excellence, consistent brand experience, and profitable growth. A strategic, proactive, and solutions-oriented mindset is essential, with a focus on localizing global processes and coordinating multiple stakeholders to maintain efficient and systematic retail operations. A deeply practical and hands-on problem-solver. In addition to analytical rigor, you must be willing to spend significant time on the ground in boutiques to understand the real-world context. The ability to translate this on-the-ground insight into actionable, store-friendly solutions that enhance daily operations without adding complexity.
Key Areas of Focus
Localize and Implement Global Operational Standards
Adapt and Execute Operational Tools and Projects from HQ
Assist the Local Execution of Retail Network Expansion with HQ team
Facilitate Communication between HQ and the Japan / Korea Retail Network
Drive Performance through the Application of HQ KPIs and Best Practices
RESPONSABILITIES
Sales & Performance Enhancement
Analyze all retail reporting (daily sales, KPIs, traffic), providing localized insights to HQ and implementing action plans based on HQ guidance.
Partner with HQ to follow up on global retail projects, ensuring local stores achieve defined KPIs.
Benchmark and localize retail best practices from HQ and the market to elevate operations, service, and presentation.
Collaborate with HQ Retail Operations to locally execute sales programs and profitability initiatives.
Store Operations Excellence
Adapt, update, and implement HQ SOPs to meet local market requirements while preserving global brand standards.
Lead training sessions to ensure operational protocols deliver on the global brand promise in a locally relevant way.
Refine local operational processes based on HQ guidelines and on-site feedback.
Manage local vendor relationships and contracts, centralizing purchasing and payment processes in line with company policy.
Oversee the local execution of global standards for uniforms and grooming, managing related budgets.
Store Compliance & Standards
Ensure all local SOPs meet both HQ global standards and local compliance requirements.
Guarantee daily store and POS operations adhere to Polène HQ policies and procedures.
Plan and execute POS audits (stock, staff, documentation) as per the global audit framework.
Follow up on audit findings with corrective actions and coaching, reporting key issues to HQ.
Uphold a strong compliance culture to safeguard employees and brand property.
REQUIREMENTS
Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into practical, actionable, and store-ready plans.
A pragmatic and hands-on mindset; you are as comfortable discussing strategy as you are executing solutions on the shop floor.
Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and digital tools; SAP knowledge a plus.
Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to connect with and understand the practical constraints of store teams.
Professional, proactive, and calm under pressure; open to diverse viewpoints.
High standards of quality and commitment to upholding and localizing brand excellence.
Fluency in Japanese and English, both written and spoken; French is a significant plus.
Strong leadership and teamwork capabilities, with empathy and a collaborative mindset.
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.
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