Stephen Maguire
Bedford,Bedfordshire
Summary
Operations Manager 17+ years' success leading innovation and retail management for high growth organisations A driver of change and business transformation and a retail specialist with a performance track record guiding cross-functional teams, achieving outstanding business outcomes in national and regional markets. Dynamic strategist with the motivation and determination for commercial success, professional development and brand identity. Business acumen leveraged to execute and propel robust sales strategies in line with various metrics and objectives including P&L, EBITDA and internal KPIs to with minimal operational costs and maximum ROI. A strong advocate for professional development through staff training and management to increase performance and influence right behaviours and values. Accomplished relationship management experience with excellent business communication, presentation and negotiation prowess. Trusted Brand Ambassador and Keynote Speaker for internal conferences, meetings and events.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work history
Head of operations
SIS
London
01.2022 - Current
- Oversaw operations of broadcasting studios across Manchester, Milton Keynes, and London.
- Led diverse teams of Product Owners, Operations Managers, Analysts, Engineers, and Players to develop tailored products.
- Maintained continuous communication with sales and marketing teams to align on customer feedback and awareness.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimise customer experience from initial awareness to post-purchase support.
- Coordinated with project managers and development teams to ensure timely delivery of integration projects.
- Developed HR documentation for individual products, establishing clear recruitment and training guidelines.
- Created and presented engaging presentations on KPI progress, achievements, and challenges for stakeholders.
- Provided first-line support for high-level customer communications to facilitate prompt resolutions.
Regional Operations Manager
Entain Group
London
09.2018 - 01.2022
- Leading a team of 10 area managers to deliver exception results and standards across 120 shops across London and the southeast.
- Developed and implemented strategies for efficient workforce allocation, taking into account peak business hours, seasonal fluctuations, and special events.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing feedback, coaching, and development opportunities to ensure i had a skilled and motivated team
- Working closely with HR teams to develop recruitment strategies, including leveraging various sourcing channels, such as job boards, social media, and employee referrals, to attract top talent
- Acted as a liaison between the company and key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the gaming commission, to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements
- Prepared and delivered weekly competitor reports, analysing and summarizing key insights on competitors' activities, offers, and market positioning in local marketplaces
- Recognising and celebrated team achievements and individual contributions, reinforcing the importance of delivering results and creating a positive work environment
REGIONAL MANAGER
Frasers Group
London - South East - Europe
04.2008 - 12.2017
- Recruiting and leading a team of 15 area managers across the south of England and in Europe
- Held bottom-line accountability for the leadership and performance of the region, which encompassed 150 stores across the UK, France, and Cyprus.
- Developed and implemented a strategic plan to revive the business in France, focusing on reducing operational and overhead costs to improve profitability.
- Leveraged relationships and networks to secure visits from prominent industry leaders, including Founders and CEOs of renowned brands such as Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, and Stone Island.
- Held accountability for the operational success of multiple facias including Everlast Gyms, Flannels Premium lifestyle, Sweatshop Running, Field and Trek, and Evans Cycles.
- Collaborated with the brand and creative teams to develop compelling marketing messages, visuals, and creative assets that conveyed the unique value proposition of Sweatshop stores.
- Ensured Store Managers understood and consistently implemented brand standards and guidelines, including visual merchandising principles, product presentation, and customer service standards.
- Developed and communicated a clear vision and set of values that promoted trust, performance, and collaboration among regional team members.
- Provided detailed analysis and insights on the factors influencing regional performance, including market trends, customer feedback, and internal operations.
- Worked with cross-functional teams, including construction, visual merchandising, buying, and operations, to coordinate and manage all aspects of the shop opening/refit process.
AREA MANAGER
Sports Direct
London - Essex
03.2004 - 03.2008
- Initially responsible for formulation and execution of pragmatic and challenging business plans and strategy to oversee and coordinate six stores which later grew to 11 with time
- Achieved the largest area in the company with a total of 18 stores, reviewed each store's customer demographic to develop bespoke products and services, as a result, increases the turnover of more than £200 million
- Led a team for the transition of Disport Belgium to Sports Direct Facias, overseeing the professional development training of staff, Store refits and EPOS systems switch out for over 40 stores
- Seen within the business as a turnaround specialist, taking poor underperforming stores and returning them to the accepted company standards.
- Brought in exceptional candidates to boost team productivity and operational efficiency.
- Approached new tasks and projects with enthusiasm and passion, increasing employee motivation and morale.
- Developed strong teams by skilfully recruiting, orienting and training loyal, hard-working employees.
Education
Ivybridge Community College
NVQ Level 4 - undefined
Pearson College
1998
Skills
- Team building
- Brand identity
- Policies and procedures implementation
- Inventory controls
- Cost reduction and containment
- Productivity improvement specialist
- Strong communication skills
- High-pressure environments
- Multi-site operations
- Communication improvements
- Strategic planning
- Mergers and acquisitions knowledge
- Change management
- Profit and loss analysis
Accomplishments
- Retail Stores Management
- Sales and Marketing Management
- Cash Flow Optimisation
- Recruiting and Staffing Initiatives
- Merchandising/Brand Management
- Recruitment and talent management
- Budget and Financial Management
- P & L Accountability
- Process Redesign / Change Management
- Customer Service Programs
- Team Building and Leadership
- European and UK HR Laws.
Additional Information
- ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Timeline
Head of operations
SIS
01.2022 - Current
Regional Operations Manager
Entain Group
09.2018 - 01.2022
REGIONAL MANAGER
Frasers Group
04.2008 - 12.2017
AREA MANAGER
Sports Direct
03.2004 - 03.2008
NVQ Level 4 - undefined
Pearson College
Ivybridge Community College