top of page
An arrow shape pointing to the right
An arrow shape pointing to the right

Retail Executive Search & Leadership Solutions

Nicholas Alexander Executive Search specialises in identifying and recruiting top-tier executive talent for the retail sector. We combine deep retail industry expertise with proven search methodologies to deliver exceptional leadership solutions.

Nicholas Alexander Assets (54).png

WHAT WE DO

Elevating Retail Leadership Through Expert Search & Consulting

Nicholas Alexander Executive Search specialises in senior appointments for the retail sector, offering a premium search service in the UK and internationally. Our business is built on the solid foundations of extensive retail industry experience combined with more than 25 years of extensive search expertise. As retailers ourselves, we are passionate about the sector and delivering an impeccable quality of service. Hard work and outstanding results have earned us a highly respected reputation.

Nicholas Alexander Assets (5).jpg
Abstract chrome-style 3D geometric shapes

OUR SERVICES

Search and Advisory for Leadership-Defining Moments

We support founders, boards and investors with services built around critical leadership decisions from single hires to multi-role build-outs, from market intelligence to interim cover. Our work spans permanent and interim appointments, always with a focus on commercial impact and sector relevance.

Executive & Board Search

End-to-end search for CEOs, C-suite and functional directors.
We identify and appoint leaders with the experience, credibility and agility to steer organisations through growth, transformation or reinvention.

Diversity‑Focused Search

Inclusive research to improve leadership representation.
We bring intentionality to diversity through targeted outreach, accessible process design, and shortlists that shift the dial.

Leadership Team Buildouts

Multi-hire placements to support scale-ups or market entry.
Speed and structure matter when building new leadership teams. We deliver full cohorts; aligned in style, complementary in skillset.

Interim & Fractional Executives

Proven leadership, deployed at pace.
From turnaround to transformation, we connect businesses to high-impact executives who can step in immediately on an interim or fractional basis.

Leadership Assessment and Organisational Development

We assess leadership capability in context, helping retail and consumer businesses make confident decisions about succession, development and team performance.

AGILITY WITH IMPACT

What Sets Us Apart

Our track record speaks for itself. Clients turn to us for:

  • Boutique Agility with Big-Firm Rigour: Bespoke service without the bureaucracy of large networks.

  • Proven Delivery: A 98% completion rate with leaders who stay and succeed.

  • Enduring Partnerships: Trusted by brands such as Screwfix, L’Occitane and BodyShop for multi-year expansion hiring.

  • Thought Leadership: Insights into retail leadership, digital transformation of talent, and DE&I best practice.

Nicholas Alexander Assets (55).png

TESTIMONIALS

In Our Clients' Words

How a focused brief, rigorous process and clear communication create confidence at every step. Clients explain how we challenged assumptions, refined the profile and brought fresh options to the table. You will see examples of repeat work and multi year relationships where trust and results go hand in hand.

L_Occitane_in_ifc_mall_2016.jpg
L'Occitane En Provence Logo

Having dealt with Maarten Jonckers for nearly 10 years, it was no surprise that Nicholas Alexander Executive Search executed and delivered a high profile and challenging search with great success. Not only did they introduce very competent candidates, they took great care in making sure there was a good cultural fit for both parties. A difficult job well done!

Alain Harfouche – CEO, l’Occitane

Nicholas Alexander Assets (6).jpg

WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE NICHOLAS ALEXANDER

Senior Partner Attention from Start to Finish

As retailers ourselves, we understand the challenges you face. This gives us a unique insight into your requirements regarding skillsets and most importantly, team fit - allowing us to deliver an impeccable quality of service. Our customer’s feedback reflects that what sets us apart is our professionalism and commitment to both clients and candidates. Our rigorous and proven recruitment process means we are integral to our clients’ strategy and our candidates’ career progression. We partner with retailers (omnichannel, digital pure‑play, luxury, fashion, DIY), restaurant groups and consumer brands across the UK and internationally. Clients choose us for:

An arrow shape pointing to the right
An arrow shape pointing to the right
Nicholas Alexander Assets (5).jpg
Abstract chrome-style 3D geometric shapes

WHO WE WORK WITH

Driving Growth & Transformation for Mid-Market D2C & Retail Organisations

Nicholas Alexander is proud to count leading retailers such as l'Occitane, Screwfix, The Body Shop, and Papa John's among our valued clients. We believe in a strategic approach to talent acquisition, and we excel when working in close collaboration with Boards to understand their specific needs. This allows us to identify and recruit high-calibre leaders who possess the vision and skills to transform their organisations. We understand that finding the right retail leadership is essential for success, and our expertise in executive search enables us to deliver exceptional results.

Nicholas Alexander Partners

SCALING RETAIL LEADERSHIP

Download Our Guide

Nicholas Alexander Executive Search presents "Scaling Retail Leadership" as a strategic blueprint designed to empower mid-sized retail businesses in navigating growth amid challenging economic times. We address the unique hurdles these companies face in attracting and retaining top executive talent, particularly in an industry undergoing rapid transformation. Our approach focuses on actionable strategies to overcome resource constraints, balance tradition with innovation, and embrace digital transformation. By fostering strong corporate culture, promoting diversity and inclusion, and adapting to trends, we aim to help mid-sized retailers secure the transformative leaders needed to drive innovation and achieve sustainable growth.

Scaling Retail Leadership Guide
Nicholas Alexander Assets (6).jpg
Abstract chrome-style 3D geometric shapes

CONTACT US

Let’s Talk Leadership

If you're planning a key hire or building out a leadership team, we’d be happy to share our perspective. Investors, board members and business leaders trust us to connect them with the right people and we’re ready to do the same for you.

NICHOLAS

ALEXANDER

EXECUTIVE SEARCH

Nicholas Alexander Executive Search is a boutique firm specialising in placing senior leadership within the retail and D2C sectors. With over 25 years of experience, we bring deep industry knowledge and a personalised approach to each assignment, helping organisations build high-performing leadership teams.

SITE LINKS

Home

Services

Contact

POLICIES

WEBSITE, CONTENT, AND MARKETING BY

Limivex Logo
bottom of page