Dave Williams

Head of Retail - Northern Europe

United Kingdom

About

With over 25 years of experience in the retail industry, I am passionate about delivering exceptional customer service, enhancing store performance, and leading teams to achieve outstanding results. As the Retail Director at FOOTASYLUM, I oversee the operations, strategy, and development of over 60 stores across the UK, ensuring alignment with the brand vision, values, and culture. I work closely with the Head Office, Area Managers, and Store Managers to implement best practices, optimize processes, and drive sales and profitability. I also leverage my expertise in retail sales, store management, and merchandising to identify new opportunities, launch innovative initiatives, and expand the market presence of FOOTASYLUM. Previously, I was the Head of Retail at FOOTASYLUM, where I managed the day-to-day operations of the retail division, and the Managing Director at Pentland Brands - FITCO, where I led the strategic direction and growth of a portfolio of fitness and lifestyle brands. I am a dynamic, collaborative, and customer-focused leader, who thrives on challenges, embraces change, and fosters a culture of excellence and innovation. I am excited to bring my diverse perspectives and experiences to the FOOTASYLUM team, and contribute to its mission of creating a unique and inspiring retail experience for its customers.

Experience

  • Head of Retail at JD Sports Fashion
    Jul 2024 - Present · 2 yrs

  • FOOTASYLUM (Full-time · 2 yrs 8 mos)
    • Retail Director
      Oct 2023 - Jul 2024 · 10 mos

    • Head Of Retail
      Dec 2021 - Oct 2023 · 1 yr 11 mos

  • Pentland Brands - FITCO (Full-time · 6 yrs 9 mos)
    • Managing Director
      Nov 2018 - Dec 2021 · 3 yrs 2 mos

    • Commercial Director
      Apr 2015 - Dec 2021 · 6 yrs 9 mos

  • Country Sales & Operations Manager at JD Sports Fashion plc
    Jan 2013 - Apr 2015 · 2 yrs 4 mos

    Employed to project manage a new store opening programme, integrating 15 new JD Sports stores across The Netherlands. A unique business project which integrated an unknown UK sports fashion retailer into a well-established High St market place without any partnership. Working independently, building a legacy within a new territory whilst also aiding the JDSPORTSFASHION PLC group’s strategic expansion plan into mainland Europe.

  • Regional Manager at Republic (Retail) Ltd
    May 2008 - Oct 2012 · 4 yrs 6 mos

    Responsible for managing stores to maximise sales, control costs, whilst developing the regional team to support a structured internal progression programme. Project manager for business expansion into Germany. 'People Guru' to the retail field team 2011/12.