Director of Operational Development & Transformation - MEA & Asia Luxury Beauty

Role Overview

The Director of Operational Development & Transformation will lead the redesign and implementation of the organisation's operational model across MEA & Asia.

Working closely with regional leadership and global headquarters, this individual will define and execute a roadmap that enhances efficiency, scalability, and commercial performance across supply chain, logistics, procurement, and distribution.

The role requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, with the ability to operate across both mature and emerging markets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Development & Transformation

• Define and deliver a multi-market operational development strategy aligned to regional growth objectives
• Partner with senior stakeholders to shape operational priorities, investment decisions, and market entry strategies
• Evaluate current operational structures and implement scalable, future-focused solutions

Supply Chain & Logistics Transformation

• Redesign end-to-end supply chain frameworks across MEA & Asia to improve agility, cost efficiency, and service levels
• Optimise distribution networks, warehousing strategies, and inventory flows across diverse markets
• Establish clear operational KPIs, reporting frameworks, and performance dashboards

Operational Build & Market Expansion

• Lead the operational setup for new markets, including infrastructure design, partner selection, and execution roadmaps
• Develop scalable models that can be replicated across regions while adapting to local market dynamics
• Ensure operational readiness to support retail, e-commerce, and omni-channel growth

Third-Party Partnerships & Ecosystem Development

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard strategic partners including 3PL providers, distributors, and manufacturers
• Negotiate and manage commercial agreements, ensuring alignment with cost, service, and growth expectations
• Build governance frameworks to ensure performance, accountability, and continuous improvement

Procurement & Supplier Strategy

• Establish a strategic procurement function focused on cost optimisation, supplier performance, and risk mitigation
• Lead supplier negotiations and implement structured contract management processes
• Introduce supplier evaluation frameworks, category management, and long-term partnership strategies

Transformation Delivery & Change Management

• Lead complex cross-functional transformation initiatives across multiple markets
• Drive adoption of new systems, processes, and operational standards
• Embed a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and performance excellence

Scope & Regional Complexity

• Oversight across Middle East, Africa, and selected Asian markets
• Responsibility for both established and developing operational environments
• Regular collaboration with global headquarters and regional leadership teams
• High level of autonomy in shaping regional operational frameworks

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in operational development, transformation, or supply chain leadership within retail, consumer, or related sectors
• Proven track record of building or restructuring operations across multiple geographies
• Strong experience across logistics, distribution, procurement, and partner ecosystems
• Demonstrated ability to operate within high-growth, evolving environments
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance cost, service, and scalability
• Deep understanding of supply chain systems, operational performance metrics, and digital enablement
• Ability to lead complex negotiations and manage strategic partnerships
• Excellent stakeholder management skills across regional and global teams

Leadership & Personal Attributes

• Strategic and forward-thinking, with the ability to translate vision into execution
• Hands-on and detail-oriented, comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels
• Resilient and adaptable, with a strong ability to navigate ambiguity
• Influential and collaborative, capable of aligning diverse stakeholders
• Results-driven, with a clear focus on measurable impact