Retail Operations & Business Development Manager
Company
Luxury Jewelry Brand
Location
Tokyo, Japan
Employment Type
Full-time
Work Style
Retail / Office Hybrid
Overview
A global luxury jewelry brand is seeking a Retail Operations & Business Development Manager to lead commercial performance and retail expansion in the Japan market.
This role will oversee retail operations, P&L management, network expansion, and client development while acting as a key representative of the brand in Japan. The position requires a commercially driven leader with strong luxury retail expertise, department store relationships, and the ability to drive operational excellence in a high-end customer environment.
Key Responsibilities
Retail Performance & P&L Management
Drive overall retail sales growth and profitability across the Japan market
Own and manage Japan market P&L, including revenue growth, operational efficiency, and cost optimization
Define and monitor KPIs including sales productivity, LFL growth, and cost control
Analyze business performance and implement action plans to improve results
Ensure consistent execution of brand standards across all retail locations
Business Development & Network Expansion
Lead retail expansion strategy and identify new market opportunities in Japan
Conduct feasibility studies and develop market entry and growth strategies
Build and maintain relationships with department stores, landlords, and real estate partners
Lead commercial lease negotiations and secure favorable business conditions
Support long-term network development and strategic partnerships
Retail Operations Management
Oversee day-to-day retail operations and customer experience standards
Optimize store processes, SOPs, and operational workflows
Monitor inventory flow, stock management, and merchandising operations
Drive operational efficiency and store cost management initiatives
Ensure compliance with luxury retail standards and operational guidelines
Client Development & Brand Representation
Elevate customer experience in alignment with luxury service expectations
Develop VIP and department store gaisho relationships
Expand customer engagement through events, partnerships, and local activations
Represent the brand externally within the Japan luxury retail market
Team Leadership
Build, manage, and develop high-performing retail teams
Set performance objectives and provide coaching and leadership support
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence
Support talent development and succession planning initiatives
Market Intelligence & Strategy
Monitor luxury retail trends, competitor activity, and customer behavior
Translate market insights into actionable commercial strategies
Collaborate closely with regional and global stakeholders
Support strategic planning and long-term business growth initiatives
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree or above
8–10+ years of experience in luxury retail management within Japan
Strong experience in both retail operations and business development
Proven track record in P&L ownership and business growth management
Existing network within Japanese department stores and luxury retail ecosystem
Strong commercial acumen and entrepreneurial mindset
Excellent stakeholder management and negotiation skills
Strong leadership and team development capabilities
Fluent Japanese and business-level English communication skills
Hands-on and customer-focused leadership style
Passion for luxury retail and premium client experience
Preferred Background
Experience within luxury jewelry, watches, fashion, or premium lifestyle brands
Experience managing store expansion or retail network development projects
Strong understanding of Japanese luxury consumer behavior and VIP client engagement
Experience collaborating with regional or global headquarters teams
Ideal Candidate Profile
Strategic and commercially minded retail leader
Strong relationship builder with excellent communication skills
Analytical and performance-driven approach to business management
Comfortable operating in fast-paced luxury environments
Able to balance operational execution with long-term business development
Passionate about brand building, people leadership, and customer experience