Open to opportunities

Dan Millward

@danmillward

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Commercially driven operations leader with over 14 years’ experience.

United Kingdom

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What I'm looking for

I am seeking a role that offers opportunities for growth and a collaborative company culture.

With over 14 years of experience in retail and project management, I am a commercially driven operations leader dedicated to driving growth and operational excellence. My career has been marked by a proven track record of leading retail growth strategies and managing high-performing teams across various client accounts and projects. I thrive in dynamic environments, where I can influence key stakeholders and implement effective operational processes that enhance productivity and compliance.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated my ability to build strong relationships with clients, ensuring their needs are met while driving increased revenue for the business. My experience spans from negotiating contracts to leading training sessions, all aimed at fostering a culture of excellence and accountability. I take pride in my detail-oriented approach and my commitment to treating every pound as my own, which has consistently resulted in improved financial performance and client satisfaction.

I am passionate about mentoring and coaching my teams, investing time to develop their skills and capabilities. My leadership style encourages autonomy and ownership, allowing my team members to excel in their respective roles. I am now looking to leverage my extensive experience in a challenging new role where I can continue to drive operational success and contribute to a forward-thinking organization.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Operations Director

Agile Retail/iD Experiential

Feb 2024 - Aug 2024 (6 months)

Led the retail growth strategy across a portfolio of client accounts/projects simultaneously, influencing key stakeholders both internally and across the client network. Led the continuous development and implementation of operational processes and business strategies to increase productivity and compliance.

Stakeholder Management Business Strategy Compliance Contract Negotiation Client Management Financial Management Team Leadership

Senior Operations Manager

Agile Retail/iD Experiential

Sep 2022 - Feb 2024 (1 year 5 months)

Owned both long-term retail projects/concessions and tactical pop-up activations, working across retail and experiential sectors. Served as the lead point of contact for clients, supporting their ambitions and goals through consultation and problem-solving.

Project Management Client Relationship Management Operational Excellence Legal Compliance Mentoring Training Performance Management Strategic Planning

Operations Manager

Agile Retail/iD Experiential

Dec 2020 - Sep 2022 (1 year 9 months)

Accountable for the performance of long-term retail stores and concessions, ensuring essential delegation of operational, staffing, and people duties. Built strong and effective working relationships with client contacts to increase sales performance, problem-solve, and deliver growth of brand visibility.

Operational Management Client Relationship Management Sales Performance Onboarding Learning and Development Needs Analysis Coaching Delegators

Area Manager

Agile Retail/iD Experiential

Nov 2018 - Dec 2020 (2 years 1 month)

Accountable for 15 retail stores across major UK cities, with full ownership of P&L, Store Operations, Customer Experience, Recruitment, People & HR. Completed quarterly store audits to ensure compliance in line with business and legal requirements.

Customer Experience Recruitment HR Management Retail Audits Compliance Performance Management Customer Service

General Manager

Outfit Fashion, Arcadia Group

Sep 2017 - Nov 2018 (1 year 2 months)

Accountable for a turnover over £7 million and a team headcount of 6 Managers and circa 35 employees. Supported underperforming stores, aligning them with the business's guidelines, focusing on improving their operational rhythm and routine.

Team Leadership Financial Management Performance Alignment Sales Management Customer Service Recruitment

Dual-Site Store Manager

New Look

May 2015 - Sep 2017 (2 years 4 months)

Accountable for a collective turnover of £3 million and a team headcount of 4 Managers and circa 20 employees across 2 sites. Led the set-up of 13 New Look branches across the UK over an 18-month period, supporting implementation of operational standards, visual merchandising and recruitment.

Team Management Store Opening Recruitment Sales Performance Inventory Management

Assistant Manager

Topshop, Arcadia Group

Mar 2013 - May 2015 (2 years 2 months)

Responsible for a turnover of £50 million and a team headcount of 24 Team Leaders and circa 120 employees across clothing, footwear, and accessories. Managed large teams and high-volume retail operations.

Team Leadership Sales Management Customer Service Staff Training Loss Prevention

Sales Manager

Outfit Fashion, Arcadia Group

Feb 2011 - Mar 2013 (2 years 1 month)

Responsible for a turnover of £8 million and a team headcount of circa 20 employees. Managed daily store operations and sales targets.

Sales Management Team Leadership Customer Service Inventory Management Performance Monitoring Staff Training

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

GTC/PTC

Certified Trainer, Training and Development

Successfully completed an internationally recognized GTC/PTC training course in Switzerland, becoming a certified trainer. This certification enhanced skills in developing and facilitating training sessions.

Unknown

NVQ Level 3, Retail Management

Achieved NVQ Level 3 in Retail Management, demonstrating proficiency in retail operations and leadership. This qualification provided a strong foundation in managing retail environments.

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GCSEs, General Studies

Obtained 13 GCSEs with grades A*-B, showcasing a strong academic foundation across various subjects. This early education provided a broad base of knowledge and critical thinking skills.