Manager Retail Operations & Store Communications EMEA (9-month maternity cover) (f/m/x)

Make an Impact We are seeking a talented and driven Manager Retail Operations & Store Communications EMEA (f/m/x) for a 9-month maternity cover assignment to join our EMEA Retail Backoffice team in Basel, Switzerland. In this role, you will support the operational excellence of our retail business across the region, strengthen in-store execution, and elevate the customer experience across all Fossil Group brands and store formats. Together with store teams and cross-functional support partners, you will lead and coordinate projects that drive operational efficiency, enable clear and effective store communication, and support the implementation of omni-channel solutions across our retail network. This is a hybrid position based in our Basel office. You will be required to work onsite from Monday through Thursday, with the flexibility to work remotely on Fridays. This role reports directly to the Head of Retail Development & Operations EMEA. What you will do in this role: Retail Operations & Performance Analyse key performance metrics to assess operational efficiency and identify opportunities for improvement Develop and implement operational initiatives that drive efficiency, reduce complexity, and enhance store performance Partner with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and execute scalable operational solutions Collaborate with Retail Tech and IT teams to support system enhancements and technical process improvements across the retail organization Support logistics coordination with warehouse partners and contribute to operational resource planning Store Communication & Execution Lead the store communication strategy across EMEA, acting as a key link between headquarters and retail teams Streamline operational tasks and ensure clear, timely, and effective communication to stores Provide recommendations to stakeholders regarding store communications, operational requests, and execution planning Work closely with Retail Training teams to align communication and timing of operational and training initiatives according to the retail calendar Own and manage the yearly operational planning calendar for retail stores Projects & Cross-Functional Collaboration Lead and participate in working groups representing the voice of retail stores across projects and operational initiatives Partner with support functions to enhance and maintain retail standard operating procedures Coordinate the implementation of retail projects across stores and markets in partnership with internal stakeholders Lead the operational execution of new store openings, ensuring timely delivery and strong collaboration across regional and global teams Support internal and external stakeholders in maintaining compliance with local operational requirements, Asset Protection standards, and Health & Safety regulations Who You Are 10+ years of experience in retail operations leadership across multiple EMEA markets Strong understanding of premium or lifestyle retail, ideally within fashion, accessories, or consumer goods Proven experience managing projects end-to-end in a complex, cross-functional environment Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale initiatives while managing multiple priorities simultaneously Strategic mindset combined with strong operational execution and a continuous improvement mentality Strong communication and collaboration skills with a hands-on approach to problem solving Excellent analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making Familiarity with current retail trends, systems, and technologies Fluent in spoken and written English; additional European languages are a plus Strong Microsoft Office and digital tools proficiency What We Offer A collaborative, international environment with strong regional impact and global connection High visibility across EMEA markets and multiple brands and store formats Learning and development opportunities to support your growth at Fossil Group