International Operations Manager

Responsibilities

- Oversee the operational effectiveness of Waterworks' International showrooms in Paris, London and Milan, ensuring consistent execution of company standards, processes and expectations

- Partner closely with the Managing Director to ensure that operational priorities are identified, coordinated and executed effectively across the international business

- Serve as a central point of contact for operational matters across the European business, connecting showroom teams with International Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting and other support functions as needed

- Establish and maintain efficient operational processes that uphold the Waterworks brand image and support a consistent luxury client and associate experience across all international showrooms

- Ensure compliance with applicable in-country employment, workplace, operational, safety and other business requirements, partnering with appropriate internal or external resources as needed

- Oversee showroom environments, including facilities management, IT services, office supplies, safety, cleanliness and implementation of visual and brand directives

- Ensure each physical showroom is maintained to Waterworks' standards for a luxury client experience

- Coordinate with landlords, contractors, vendors and other third parties and serve as a point person for operational matters and expected visitors or contractors

- Oversee showroom product sample stock, including inventory, reporting, replenishment and processes for incoming and outgoing sample orders and requests

- Ensure appropriate tracking and management of sample activity, including identifying the client, Sales Consultant and/or quote associated with each request and ensuring accurate and successful delivery

- Support showroom leadership with training initiatives and facilitate training on systems, processes or products as assigned

- Oversee showroom inventory management and annual inventory processes, ensuring accurate controls and timely completion

- Provide operational support to showroom teams and back-up sales support as needed

- In partnership with Marketing, oversee the planning and execution of large scale international corporate or brand events, while ensuring adherence to Waterworks branding and company expectations

- Coordinate operational aspects of showroom openings, including the planned Milan showroom, and support the ongoing establishment of processes, vendors, facilities and business infrastructure

- Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, consistency and communication across the international business

- Establish clear communication and follow-up processes to ensure key operational items are completed, and issues do not fall through the cracks

- Act as a trusted operational partner to the Managing Director, anticipating needs, identifying potential issues and proactively driving solutions

- Role model and promote the Waterworks values and service principles across the international business

- Other accountabilities as assigned

Requirements

- Bachelor's degree or equivalent

- 5 plus years of proven work experience in operations, business management, showroom management or a related role, preferably within a high-end luxury brand environment

- Experience supporting or overseeing multiple locations, markets or business units preferred

- International or multi-country operational experience strongly preferred

- Strong understanding of working across different cultures, business practices and local requirements

- Proactive and highly organized, with the ability to work independently and effectively across multiple locations and time zones

- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and drive projects through completion

- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders and cross-functional teams

- Strong relationship-building skills and ability to work collaboratively across functions and geographies

- Self-motivated team leader with excellent coaching, influencing and communication skills

- Ability to take charge, drive for results and make sound decisions quickly

- Ability to identify issues proactively, determine appropriate solutions and escalate when necessary

- Ability to inspire trust, integrity and professionalism

- Exceptional time management and organizational skills with the ability to multi-task and keep multiple priorities moving forward

- Innovative and strategic thinker with strong attention to detail

- Proficient in all Microsoft Office applications

- Interior Design or luxury retail experience/exposure preferred

- Fluency in English required; additional European language skills preferred

- Ability to travel to showroom locations 50% of the time