ABOUT KHAITE
KHAITE is a way of looking at the world. Shaped by formative encounters, cultural touchstones, and secret desires, this point of view comes to life through womenswear and accessories that find confidence in contrast. Each piece proposes a fresh balance of opposing elements- masculine and feminine, strength and softness, structure and fluidity- while embodying a signature sensuality and ease.
Founded in 2016 by creative director Catherine Holstein and based in New York, KHAITE evolves with each season, building upon a foundation of robust yet polished items distinguished by exceptional materials, exquisite craftsmanship, and subtle yet striking details.
ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY
We are seeking a Head of Retail to lead and evolve KHAITE’s global retail business as the Brand continues its expansion. This individual will oversee the performance, profitability, and strategic development of KHAITE’s directly operated retail stores, establishing the vision, infrastructure, and organizational capabilities necessary to support continued growth.
As a senior leader within the organization, the Head of Retail will be responsible for executing the retail strategy, driving commercial performance, cultivating exceptional client relationships, and developing a high-performing retail organization. This individual will ensure that every retail touchpoint reflects KHAITE’s distinctive brand identity, delivering an elevated and consistent luxury client experience while balancing commercial objectives with operational excellence.
The Head of Retail will collaborate closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to translate the brand’s vision and business objectives into purposeful retail strategies, identifying new opportunities for growth while strengthening brand equity and shaping an exceptional client experience that secures the long-term success of the retail business. A strong commercial mindset, entrepreneurial approach, and demonstrated ability to lead and scale a multi-unit luxury retail organization are essential to success in this role.
This position is based in our NYC office and reports to the CCO.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Retail Strategy & Business Development:
Define and execute KHAITE’s global retail strategy, aligning retail growth, commercial objectives, and brand positioning with the Company’s broader business priorities.
Lead the continued evolution and expansion of KHAITE’s directly operated retail business, identifying opportunities to strengthen existing markets and identify and evaluate new market opportunities, developing recommendations for the CEO and CCO to guide the brand’s expansion and establish the brand in new markets.
Establish the strategic vision and operating framework for the retail organization, ensuring the infrastructure, resources, and capabilities necessary to support continued growth.
Identify opportunities to enhance the retail business through new initiatives, evolving luxury retail practices, and a deep understanding of the competitive landscape.
Commercial & Financial Performance:
Own the overall financial performance and profitability of the retail business, including revenue, operating expenses, and store-level P&Ls.
Develop and execute annual retail business plans, budgets, and financial objectives in partnership with Finance and executive leadership.
Establish and monitor commercial KPIs across the retail organization, translating business performance into actionable strategies to drive growth and profitability.
Partner with Store Directors to drive sales productivity, client development, conversion, average transaction value, and overall store performance.
Evaluate business trends, identify opportunities and risks, and implement strategies to improve performance across individual stores and the broader retail portfolio.
Ensure disciplined expense management and operational efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of luxury service and brand…