Head of Operations - #2171363

An exceptional opportunity to shape the operational future of one of Northern Ireland's most prestigious family-owned businesses.

MCS Executive is delighted to be partnering exclusively with Lunn's Jewellers to appoint a Head of Operations, a pivotal senior leadership position within one of Northern Ireland's most recognised and respected luxury retail businesses.

Established in 1954, Lunn's has built an outstanding reputation for quality, exceptional customer service and long-standing relationships with some of the world's leading jewellery and watch brands. With a heritage spanning three generations and a commitment to continued investment and innovation, the business is entering an exciting period of development.

This appointment represents an opportunity for an experienced and commercially focused leader to take ownership of the business's operational infrastructure, property portfolio and capital investment programmes, ensuring operational excellence continues to underpin its future success.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Projects Director initially, before transitioning to the Retail & Operations Director, the Head of Operations will play an integral role within the Senior Leadership Team.

With responsibility spanning property, facilities, maintenance, health and safety, security and support functions, the successful candidate will lead the development and delivery of an operational strategy that supports commercial performance, business growth and an exceptional customer experience.

The role will combine strategic leadership with hands-on operational delivery, providing the opportunity to influence business decisions, lead significant projects and develop high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic and operational management of the company's property portfolio, facilities and business support functions.
• Oversee significant capital investment programmes, including store developments, refurbishments and infrastructure improvements.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that enhance efficiency, strengthen governance and support future growth.
• Provide leadership across health and safety, security, risk management and business continuity.
• Manage operational budgets, capital expenditure, supplier relationships and commercial performance.
• Lead, coach and develop multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Work closely with the Managing Director, Board and Senior Leadership Team to ensure operational priorities align with the company's wider commercial objectives.

The Person

We are seeking an accomplished operational leader who combines strategic thinking, strong commercial awareness and a proven ability to deliver complex projects within demanding environments.

Essential criteria:

• A minimum of 10 years' senior leadership experience within property, facilities, operations, construction, estates or business services management.
• A proven track record of delivering large-scale capital expenditure and business improvement projects.
• Strong experience managing multi-site operations.
• NEBOSH General Certificate, or an equivalent recognised health and safety qualification, with relevant professional membership or evidence of continuing professional development.
• Experience leading facilities, maintenance, health and safety and security functions.
• Strong financial management and budgetary control experience.
• Demonstrable ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities.

Experience within luxury retail, hospitality or premium consumer environments would be advantageous, alongside relevant professional qualifications in property, construction, facilities management, project management or health and safety.

Of equal importance will be your leadership style, commercial judgement and ability to build trusted relationships across all levels of the business.

Why Join Lunn's?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a highly respected, family-owned organisation with an exceptional heritage, ambitious plans and a genuine commitment to its people.

Lunn's offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Discretionary bonus scheme and 5% employer pension contribution, subject to scheme rules.
• Private medical insurance and healthcare benefits.
• 25 days' annual leave, plus eight bank holidays and your birthday off.
• Death in service cover and colleague purchase scheme.
• Ongoing learning and professional development opportunities.

Lunn's has been certified as a Great Place to Work in 2024, 2025 and 2026, reflecting its commitment to building a supportive, inclusive and people-focused culture.

Application Process

MCS Executive has been exclusively appointed to manage this search.

To apply, please request the Candidate Information Booklet by emailing [email protected]

For a confidential discussion about the opportunity, please contact MCS Executive on 028 9693 2668.