Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Gloucester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading travel brand seeks a Head of Retail to develop and execute retail strategies, initially starting part-time. With responsibility over sales and operations in duty-free retail, the ideal candidate has a wealth of experience in retail management, with a focus on profitability and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in high-volume retail, especially in duty-free or travel retail.
• Proven track record of increasing sales and profitability.
• Strong knowledge of retail management and concession agreements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategies for duty-free operations.
• Drive sales and profitability through effective merchandising.
• Manage budgets, sales data, and prepare reports for management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Budget Management

Sales Strategy

Retail Management

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Gloucester, 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 developing and executing the overall retail strategy, including Duty Free and Operator tender processes, management, and implementation, working closely with Operators for retail execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement retail strategies for duty-free and tender operations, aligning with company goals and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability through effective merchandising, promotions, and team motivation.
• Oversee retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, store maintenance, and compliance with operational standards and regulations specific to duty-free and tenders.
• Manage and execute outlet implementations with operators.
• Ensure a customer-centric approach, delivering exceptional service and memorable shopping experiences for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and prepare regular commercial reports for senior management.
• Build and maintain relationships with authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and other stakeholders in the duty-free and tender ecosystem.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and traveler demographics to identify opportunities and inform strategic decisions.
• Participate in developing and overseeing competitive tender bids for retail concessions, demonstrating understanding of commercial and operational requirements.

Your background:

• At least 5 years of experience in high-volume retail, particularly within duty-free, travel retail, airports, rail, or similar international concession environments.
• Proven success in increasing sales 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 skills including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibility.