Digital, Retail and Wholesale Operations professionals sit at the core of how brands scale, perform and deliver consistently across markets. In 2026, operational excellence is no longer purely functional. It is strategic, data-led and central to customer experience, profitability and long-term brand health.

Global industry insight from organisations such as McKinsey & Company and the World Economic Forum continues to highlight the growing importance of integrated operating models that connect digital, physical retail and wholesale channels. The strongest operations leaders understand how decisions made across supply chain, inventory, logistics and trading directly influence customer satisfaction, margin and brand perception.

Digital operations require fluency across trading, forecasting, merchandising, fulfilment and analytics. Professionals in this space are expected to optimise online performance through data-driven decision making, understanding conversion, stock turn, sell-through, returns and customer lifetime value. Experience managing global ecommerce platforms, cross-border trade and omnichannel fulfilment is increasingly important as brands expand internationally.

Retail operations professionals focus on translating brand strategy into consistent in-store execution. This includes store performance management, operational standards, staffing models, visual merchandising alignment and customer experience. Practical, results-based experience running store networks, opening new locations or managing rollouts is essential, particularly in a climate where physical retail must work harder to justify its role within the wider ecosystem.

Wholesale operations remain a critical growth channel for many brands. Success here depends on strong commercial acumen, partner management and operational discipline. Professionals are expected to understand margin structures, seasonal planning, allocation, delivery timelines and the operational demands of working with global wholesale partners while protecting brand integrity.

Across digital, retail and wholesale, data and technology play a central role. AI-driven forecasting, inventory optimisation and performance reporting increasingly support decision making, but judgement, experience and accountability remain key. Sustainability, efficiency and transparency are now embedded within operational strategy, reflecting broader shifts in consumer expectation and regulatory pressure.

We look for operations professionals who combine analytical rigour with practical experience and commercial clarity. Whether operating at scale or supporting a growing business, the strongest individuals understand how to build resilient systems, manage complexity and deliver consistent results across channels, helping brands grow responsibly and perform with confidence in global markets.