Commercial Director - Middle East (Luxury Retail)

The Commercial Director – Middle East will be a senior member of the regional leadership team, responsible for driving commercial performance across multiple markets and channels. The role combines strategic oversight with hands-on operational leadership, ensuring that the brand continues to deliver sustainable growth, exceptional customer experience, and market-leading innovation.

Working closely with the Global HQ and reporting to the global CEO, this individual will oversee all aspects of commercial strategy, retail performance, and market development. The Commercial Director will be a key business partner in shaping the regional vision, delivering against ambitious growth objectives, and ensuring the brand maintains its position at the forefront of the luxury retail sector.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial & Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute the regional commercial strategy in line with global business objectives.
• Drive revenue growth, profitability, and market share across all channels (retail, e-commerce, wholesale, and new business opportunities).
• Lead market planning, identifying opportunities for expansion, innovation, and enhanced customer engagement.
• Partner with HQ on global initiatives while tailoring strategies to the Middle East context.

Retail & Operational Excellence

• Oversee store performance and P&L across the region, ensuring commercial targets are consistently met.
• Lead retail operations to deliver a best-in-class customer experience aligned with luxury brand standards.
• Implement commercial excellence programs, focusing on clienteling, CRM, and personalised services.
• Collaborate with operations, supply chain, and merchandising to ensure seamless execution.

Digital & Omnichannel Transformation

• Champion digital and omnichannel strategies to enhance customer engagement and sales performance.
• Leverage data, analytics, and AI-driven insights to optimise pricing, assortment, and customer experience.
• Partner with global teams on digital transformation projects, ensuring the Middle East remains a leader in innovation.

Leadership & People Development

• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing commercial team across multiple markets.
• Act as a coach and mentor, developing future leaders within the organisation.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, excellence, and innovation.

Stakeholder Management

• Act as a trusted advisor to the Regional CEO and Global Leadership Team.
• Represent the Middle East at global forums, ensuring the region’s voice is heard in strategic decision-making.
• Build strong relationships with landlords, business partners, and key stakeholders across the region.

Candidate Profile

Experience & Qualifications:

• Minimum 15 years’ experience, with at least 5–7 years in a senior commercial, retail, or general management leadership role within luxury retail, fashion, or lifestyle brands.
• Proven track record of delivering strong commercial results in multi-market, regional leadership roles.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen, with deep P&L ownership experience.
• Demonstrated success in driving digital transformation, omnichannel strategies, and data-led commercial decisions.
• International exposure, ideally with Middle East market experience.
• Strong academic background; MBA or equivalent is an advantage.

Skills & Attributes:

• Inspirational leadership with the ability to influence at Board and C-suite level.
• Deep understanding of the luxury consumer, market trends, and competitive landscape.
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to execution.
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.
• High cultural awareness and ability to thrive in diverse environments.
• Entrepreneurial, agile, and results-driven mindset.