We’re looking for a strategic and commercially savvy leader to join Claire’s as Executive Director, Global Quality Assurance on a 6 month fixed-term contract . Reporting to the Chief Legal Officer and leading a team of 20+, you will drive global product safety, compliance, and quality standards across Europe and North America.
In this high-impact role, you’ll collaborate with internal teams and suppliers, ensuring our products meet evolving regulatory requirements while supporting business success. If you thrive in a fast-paced, global environment and have a passion for quality, leadership, and innovation , this is your opportunity to make a real difference at Claire’s.

EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE

• Proven track record in global quality assurance, regulatory compliance, or product safety —ideally in a retail, manufacturing, enforcement authority, or test house setting.
• Strong knowledge of European and North American regulatory frameworks , including product labelling and testing requirements.
• Experience working with enforcement authorities, defending or prosecuting regulatory cases.
• A background in legal, compliance, chemistry, or a related technical discipline is highly desirable.

SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

• Leadership & Influence: You know how to inspire teams, build trust, and drive results in a fast-paced, evolving retail landscape.
• Sharp Business Acumen: You understand how to navigate compliance while supporting commercial success.
• Crisis Management: You stay calm under pressure, with experience handling product investigations and regulatory inquiries.
• Strong Communicator: Able to explain complex regulatory requirements in a clear, practical, and solution-oriented manner.
• Proactive & Agile: You’re a strategic thinker who thrives on solving challenges and improving processes.
• Fluent in an additional European language (French, Spanish, or German) is a plus.

• Lead with Excellence: Oversee Claire’s Global Quality Assurance (QA) function, ensuring all products meet safety, compliance, and quality standards in line with regulations.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve: Monitor and implement legal and regulatory changes across Europe and North America, proactively communicating updates to relevant teams.
• Team Leadership & Development: Inspire, mentor, and support a high-performing QA team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and collaboration.
• Crisis & Risk Management: Act as the go-to expert in critical incidents, guiding the business through investigations and enforcement matters with composure.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Work closely with Merchandising, Buying, and suppliers to identify and address potential compliance issues before products hit the market.
• Supplier & Testing Oversight: Assess, audit, and guide suppliers and test houses to uphold the highest standards, ensuring cost efficiency and optimal turnaround times.
• Training & Compliance Manuals: Educate internal teams and suppliers on regulatory requirements, while maintaining clear compliance guidelines and global standards.
• Strategic Decision-Making: Use data-driven insights to inform QA processes, balancing regulatory requirements with commercial considerations.
• Budget & Performance Management: Set goals, track progress, and manage the QA budget to optimize resources effectively.