Managing Director

This is a rare opportunity to lead the Australian arm of a global apparel and footwear brand. You will drive growth, culture, and operational excellence across 60+ locations and a central Melbourne head office.

Client Details

A highly respected global brand within the apparel and footwear sector is entering an exciting new phase of growth in Australia. Known for its enduring commitment to quality, comfort, and craftsmanship, the company operates across multiple international markets and is regarded as one of the most recognisable names in its category.

Following a period of strong expansion and structural transformation, the business is seeking an experienced Managing Director for Australia to lead its next chapter. This is a pivotal leadership role overseeing the national operations, retail performance, and commercial direction of a brand that blends heritage with modern retail innovation.

Description

Reporting to the global head office, this role carries full country P&L responsibility and overall accountability for the Australian business, including:

• Leading a network of 60+ retail locations nationally, supported by a Melbourne head office of 30+ professionals across operations, finance, marketing, supply chain, and HR.
• Driving continued growth across retail, wholesale, and e-commerce channels while maintaining brand integrity and customer experience standards.
• Partnering with global stakeholders to execute strategic initiatives, optimise performance, and strengthen local capabilities.
• Leading cultural alignment and organisational development as the business transitions into a new structure.
• Championing innovation in customer experience, store performance, and digital engagement.
• Overseeing annual planning, budgeting, and forecasting, ensuring strong financial discipline and sustainable growth.
• Developing and executing local go-to-market and brand strategies aligned with global positioning.
• Building operational excellence through process improvement, data-driven decision-making, and modern retail systems.
• Strengthening leadership capability within the Australian business through mentorship, coaching, and succession planning.
• Acting as the key representative for the brand in Australia, building partnerships with landlords, agencies, and external stakeholders.

Profile

We are seeking a commercially astute and people-focused leader who thrives in dynamic, multi-site consumer environments. You will bring:

• Proven experience leading large-scale retail, apparel, footwear, or accessories businesses.
• Strong operational and financial acumen, with full P&L accountability and experience managing national store networks.
• A leadership style that combines warmth, authenticity, and performance discipline - inspiring loyalty, trust, and excellence across teams.
• Expertise in driving transformation and growth within a global or matrix organisation.
• The ability to balance global brand standards with the agility required for local market success.
• A deep understanding of omni-channel retail, customer experience, and digital transformation.
• Strategic and analytical capability to translate market insights into actionable business decisions.
• Demonstrated success in building culture and engagement during periods of organisational change.
• Strong communication and influencing skills, with confidence engaging at the board and regional or global leadership level.
• Passion for premium products, craftsmanship, and sustainable growth within lifestyle and fashion categories.

Job Offer

This is a rare opportunity to shape the direction of a globally admired brand in one of its most established and strategically important markets. The successful candidate will join a passionate, values-led organisation entering a major growth phase where innovation, brand stewardship, and people leadership will be key to long-term success.

An attractive executive remuneration package, including base salary, superannuation, and performance-based incentives, will be offered to attract the highest calibre of talent.