Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Coventry; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading travel brand seeks a Head of Retail in Coventry for part-time initially, transitioning to full-time. This role involves driving retail strategy and operations across duty-free environments, ensuring financial performance, and managing diverse teams. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in high-volume retail, exceptional leadership, and a deep understanding of duty-free operations.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in high-volume retail, especially within duty-free.
• Strong knowledge of duty-free operations and retail management.
• Exceptional leadership, capable of managing diverse teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategy for duty-free and tenders.
• Drive sales targets and profitability across all stores.
• Oversee all retail operations including inventory and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Retail Management

Communication

Financial Acumen

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Coventry, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

4

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

Job Description:

The Change Partners are working with an iconic Travel brand that is looking for a Head of Retail on an initial contract to permanent basis, starting part-time (1-2 days per week initially, increasing over time).

The Head of Retail will be responsible for overall retail strategy and execution, including Duty Free and Operator tender management, implementation, and collaboration with Operators for retail execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the overall retail strategy for duty-free and tenders, aligning with company objectives and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability across all stores through effective merchandising, promotions, and sales team motivation.
• Oversee all retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, store maintenance, and compliance with operational standards and regulations specific to duty-free and tender environments.
• Manage and execute outlet implementation with operators.
• Champion a customer-centric approach, ensuring exceptional service and a memorable shopping experience for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and provide regular commercial reports to senior management.
• Build and maintain relationships with authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and key stakeholders in the duty-free and tender sectors.
• Stay updated on industry trends, competitor activities, and traveler demographics to identify opportunities and inform strategic decisions.
• Participate in and oversee the development of competitive tender bids for retail concessions, demonstrating understanding of commercial terms and operational requirements.

Your background:

• At least 5 years of experience in high-volume retail, especially within duty-free, travel retail, airports, rail, or similar international concession environments.
• Proven success in driving sales growth and profitability across multiple retail stores.
• Strong knowledge of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, capable of inspiring and managing diverse teams.
• Financial acumen, including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibilities.