Head of Print Sales & Retail Partnerships

The Observer UK; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A historic national newspaper in London is seeking a Head of Print Sales & Retail Partnerships to lead sales performance initiatives. This strategic role involves developing print sales strategies, managing retailer relationships, and driving circulation growth. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in print sales and a strong understanding of distribution and promotional tactics. The position offers competitive salary and benefits, including 30 days of leave and private healthcare.

Benefits

Competitive Salary & Bonus Scheme

30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays

Private healthcare

Pension scheme

Cycle-to-work scheme

Interest-free season ticket loans

Free snacks and drinks

Qualifications

• Proven experience in print sales or circulation management.
• Strong understanding of retail partnerships and distribution strategies.
• Ability to analyze performance data and develop strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a print sales strategy.
• Build relationships with retailers and distributors.
• Manage sales targets and budgets.

Skills

Print sales experience

Relationship management

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Retail partnerships

Promotional campaign development

Job description

Job Title: Head of Print Sales & Retail Partnerships

Location: London (Berners Street) with 1 day of remote work per week

Type: Full-time, Monday – Friday

The Observer is the world’s oldest Sunday newspaper, founded in 1791, with a long-standing reputation for high-quality, independent journalism. It is committed to editorial independence, providing unbiased reporting and a platform for diverse viewpoints.

With its multi-platform approach across print, digital, and audio, it reaches a wide and engaged audience.

We are now seeking an experienced and results-driven Head of Print Sales to lead the sales performance of a leading national newspaper’s print edition. This is a strategic leadership role where you will develop and implement a print sales strategy to maximise circulation, increase revenue, and enhance the paper’s presence across key retail and distribution channels. You’ll work closely with retailers, agencies, and distribution partners to ensure the paper continues to thrive in a competitive market.

Key Responsibilities

• Sales Strategy & Growth : Develop and execute a print sales strategy to drive circulation growth and maximise revenue.
• Retail & Distribution Management : Build and nurture strong relationships with key retailers and third-party distributors to enhance visibility, ensure efficient supply, and maximise market penetration.
• Promotions & Activations : Design and implement impactful retail promotions (e.g., sampling, vouchers, bundled offers) to drive sales and encourage newspaper purchases.
• Operational Performance : Manage sales targets and budgets, providing regular reports and insights on performance trends to senior leadership.
• Collaborative Leadership : Work cross-functionally with internal teams, retail partners, and external agencies to deliver successful campaigns and promotions.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in print sales, retail sales, or circulation management within the publishing or media sector.
• Strong understanding of retail partnerships, distribution strategies, and promotional campaigns.
• Ability to analyse sales performance data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills, with a track record of working with retailers and agencies to drive sales.
• Passion for driving print circulation and finding innovative ways to increase market share.
• Excellent at collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to achieve shared goals.
• Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced, evolving industry.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive Salary & Bonus Scheme
• 30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private healthcare and group income protection
• Pension scheme
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Interest-free season ticket loans
• Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom
• Various other benefits

If you're passionate about print media, sales-driven strategies, and creating innovative promotional campaigns, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today via our 3rd party agency Quest Search & Selection to join a progressive and forward-thinking team in the heart of London.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued and empowered to succeed. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs.