Sephora Operations Manager

About Sephora

Sephora is a global prestige beauty retailer, renowned for its curated assortment of nearly 500 brands and its own SEPHORA Collection. As part of the LVMH family, Sephora blends retail innovation, strong brand partnerships and an inclusive customer-first culture while expanding its footprint across the UK and international markets.

Role & Responsibilities

• Own day‑to‑day store operations across cash, stock and back‑of‑house to ensure full compliance with Sephora policies and operational standards.
• Drive operational efficiency through best practices in replenishment, stockroom layout, cleanliness, organisation and visual readiness.
• Manage inbound and delivery processes to meet timing, accuracy and productivity targets, and resolve logistical discrepancies.
• Direct cash desk operations, oversee cash‑management procedures, conduct audits and promptly investigate and resolve variances.
• Maintain optimal inventory levels and lead stock control processes to support commercial performance and minimise shortages.
• Ensure compliance with safety, returns and operational guidelines and promote a secure, hazard‑free environment for colleagues and customers.
• Lead, coach and develop operational and cash desk teams, delivering ongoing training, performance feedback and capability-building.
• Create efficient rotas and daily plans that balance business demand with colleague wellbeing and partner with leadership on ER, payroll and resourcing.
• Leverage Sephora digital tools to streamline processes and support personalised customer service.
• Support recruitment and onboarding for operational roles and act as operational escalation for customer experience issues.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' experience in retail operations with demonstrable leadership responsibility.
• Proven expertise in cash handling, audit processes and stock management within a high‑volume retail environment.
• Strong organisational, time‑management and prioritisation skills under fast‑paced, peak trading conditions.
• Proven ability to interpret KPIs and translate data into operational improvements.
• Experience managing ER matters, payroll liaison and rota planning.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a track record of developing diverse teams.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and peak trading periods as required.

Skills

Experience

Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in retail operations, including leadership of cash, stockroom and back‑of‑house teams in high‑traffic, multi‑brand retail environments.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree in business, retail management or a related discipline preferred.

Workplace

Benefits

Sephora University training; role‑related allowances (e.g., shoes, lunch); competitive pay with annual reviews; performance‑based commission tied to store results; global employee discount; paid birthday day off; access to perks and wellbeing platform; generous holiday allowance with option to purchase additional days.

Culture

Sephora fosters an inclusive, fast‑paced retail culture that prizes creativity, continuous learning and customer obsession. As part of the LVMH group, the brand emphasises professional development through structured training and opportunities to grow within an expansive, innovation‑led beauty business.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.