Commercial Optimisation Lead

John Lewis Partnership; Bracknell; Hybrid; GBP 75,000 - 121,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Commercial Optimisation Lead to spearhead a strategic project aimed at upgrading legacy pricing systems. This pivotal role involves collaborating with diverse teams to develop innovative solutions that enhance profitability. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in pricing and promotions within FMCG and demonstrate strong change management skills. Join a forward-thinking organization that values innovation, diversity, and employee ownership, and take the opportunity to shape the future of pricing strategies in a dynamic retail environment.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams up to executive level.
• Experience managing transformation portfolios and governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the project managing design, development, and transition of systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional groups to enhance user experience.

Skills

Experience with pricing and promotions solutions

Oracle pricing and promotions systems experience

Background in FMCG commercial or transformation roles

Change management and implementation experience

Strong stakeholder management skills

Influencing and communication skills

Job description

About the role

Jennifer Sweeney, Head of Commercial Optimisation, is recruiting a Commercial Optimisation Lead to join the Waitrose & Partners Commercial Team.

This role will initially focus on a strategic project to upgrade our legacy pricing and promotions management system across the Waitrose estate, unlocking new capabilities to drive profitability.

Role Details

• Contract Type: 1 x permanent position
• Location: Bracknell, with hybrid working (2-3 days in the office per week)
• Salary Range: £75,700 - £121,000
• Partnership Level: 5
• Interviews: Virtual, week commencing 19th May

Key Responsibilities

You will lead the project, managing the design, development, and transition of systems, processes, and teams, collaborating with a cross-functional group. Your technical and operational expertise will ensure business requirements are translated into effective solutions that enhance user experience. Working with architecture and solution experts, you will evaluate options and recommend setups for the new pricing and promotions capabilities, aligned with other ongoing projects.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience with pricing and promotions solutions
• Oracle pricing and promotions systems experience
• Background in FMCG commercial or transformation roles
• Change management and implementation experience in retail environments
• Strong stakeholder management, influencing, and communication skills

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience implementing pricing and promotions solutions in grocery retail
• Knowledge of Waitrose's commercial teams, processes, and culture
• Experience in communication and engagement, simplifying complex messages
• Experience managing transformation portfolios and governance
• Ability to guide decision-making with minimal disruption
• Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams up to executive level
• Proactive, curious, and collaborative mindset
• Ability to handle multiple complex issues and knowledge of Waitrose systems

External candidates are encouraged to review the attached job outline for further details.

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About The Partnership

We’re the UK's largest employee-owned business, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. We’re committed to building a happier world through innovation, diversity, and shared ownership. We foster an environment where everyone can thrive, respecting individuality and encouraging growth.

Important Points

Some roles require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks and financial probity assessments. We advise applying promptly as vacancies may close early due to high application volumes. We support flexible working arrangements and encourage discussing this with your hiring manager during the interview process.