Head of Sales & Commercial (UK & Europe)
UK-based | Sportswear | Travel as required
We are currently leading the search for a Head of Sales & Commercial (UK & Europe) for an established global sportswear brand.
This role sits at an important moment for the business. The brand is currently operating through a transition phase following a licensee change. While consumer demand remains strong, the organisation is navigating inherited operational challenges — including supply chain and 3PL delivery performance — and is building stronger commercial foundations within a lean, entrepreneurial structure inside an established sportswear brand.
The organisation previously hired a General Manager for the European market, however the business has refined its structure and is now seeking a hands-on commercial leader focused on driving sales performance, strengthening retailer relationships, and stabilising commercial operations.
The Role
You will lead commercial execution across the UK and European markets, managing relationships with key retailers, online retailers, and distributors while working closely with internal teams to ensure commercial delivery.
This role suits a commercially credible operator who can lead from the front, operate with autonomy, and maintain retailer confidence while the business continues strengthening its operational platform.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Leadership
* Drive commercial performance across UK and European sportswear and fashion retail partners
* Lead key commercial relationships with retailers, online retailers, and distributors
* Identify and unlock commercial growth opportunities across the region
Retailer & Partner Relationships
* Act as a trusted commercial partner to major retail accounts
* Maintain credibility and transparency when operational challenges occur
* Protect long-term retailer trust and brand reputation
Operational Collaboration
* Work closely with internal teams to resolve operational issues and maintain commercial momentum
* Take a pragmatic approach when supply chain or delivery constraints arise
* Ensure retailers remain confident in the brand’s commercial execution
Strengthening Commercial Foundations
* Contribute to improving processes, structure, and ways of working
* Support the business in building a stronger commercial platform for future growth
* Operate effectively within a lean, entrepreneurial environment
What We’re Looking For
* A commercially credible operator with strong relationships across UK and European sportswear or fashion retail
* Proven experience working with retailers, online retailers, and distributors
* Someone who can hit the ground running with key commercial partners
* A relationship-driven professional who protects trust and credibility
* Operationally pragmatic — understands that in sportswear delivering orders on time and in full is critical
* Comfortable operating in a startup-style structure within an established brand
* Experience managing smaller teams or operating in lean commercial environments