About the company

Founded in New Zealand, Karen Walker is celebrated for its distinctive, design-led aesthetic and beautifully crafted pieces made to be worn and loved for years to come. With a strong global presence and a reputation for creativity, individuality, and quality, the brand continues to build a loyal international following.

The role

We’re looking for an experienced Head of Operations to take ownership of warehousing, customer service, and logistics at Karen Walker, leading a high-performing team with three direct reports in a fast-paced environment.

This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll oversee end-to-end operations – from inbound/outbound logistics, warehousing and inventory management through to customer experience and global exports. You’ll play a critical role in supporting the continued success of Karen Walker, driving service excellence, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement across the business.

This role will suit someone who is highly organised, commercially minded, hands on and confident leading teams while managing complex operational workflows, with an appreciation for working within a creative, brand-led environment.

How you will contribute  

• Oversee end-to-end warehousing operations including inbound, dispatch, and returns
• Maintain inventory accuracy and drive stock control improvements
• Ensure accurate order processing and achievement of DIFOT/OTIF targets
• Lead capacity planning to support peaks and business demand
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across operations
• Lead the customer service function, ensuring timely communication and resolution
• Manage returns, credits, and claims while improving customer experience
• Ensure compliant and cost-effective export operations
• Liaise with freight forwarders and optimise freight performance
• Lead and develop the team while fostering a culture of safety and accountability

Key requirements

• 5–8+ years’ experience across warehousing, distribution, and customer service, with export shipping exposure
• Strong understanding of export documentation, customs requirements, and HS classification
• Proven leadership experience managing teams across multiple functions
• Strong systems experience across ERP/WMS/TMS platforms (e.g. SAP, Cin7/DEAR or similar)
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups) with the ability to analyse and report on performance
• Demonstrated success improving KPIs such as DIFOT, inventory accuracy, and operational efficiency
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• A customer-first mindset with the ability to stay calm under pressure and make sound decisions
• Strong attention to detail, particularly across export compliance and documentation
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach with a continuous improvement mindset

Why apply

This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a senior operational leadership role within Karen Walker, one of New Zealand’s most iconic design-led brands. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact across warehousing, customer service, and global logistics, while leading a capable and collaborative team.

Offering a dynamic, creative environment, a strong team culture, and the chance to drive meaningful change, this role is ideal for someone looking to take ownership and elevate operations within a globally recognised brand like Karen Walker.

If this role is of interest and you would like to work for one of New Zealand’s most prestigious fashion designers, please APPLY NOW or contact Sarah Kennedy from Hunter Campbell.