Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Hemel Hempstead; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global talent specialist is seeking a Head of Retail for an iconic Travel brand in Hemel Hempstead. This part-time to permanent role focuses on developing retail strategies and managing operations in a dynamic duty-free environment, aimed at enhancing customer experiences and driving sales profitably.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in high-volume retail, especially in duty-free.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Exceptional financial skills, including P&L responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategies for duty-free.
• Drive sales and oversee retail operations.
• Manage budgets and analyze sales data.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial Skills

Retail Management

Customer-centric Approach

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Head of Retail - Travel, Hemel Hempstead

Client:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Hemel Hempstead, 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 seeking a Head of Retail on a contract-to-permanent basis. The role starts 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, collaborating with Operators for retail execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement retail strategies for duty-free and tender, aligned with company objectives and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability through effective merchandising, promotions, and motivating sales teams.
• Oversee retail operations, including inventory, visual merchandising, store maintenance, and compliance with operational standards specific to duty-free and tender environments.
• Manage outlet implementation 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 report to senior management.
• Build relationships with authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and stakeholders in the duty-free ecosystem.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitor activities, and traveler demographics to identify new opportunities.
• Participate in developing tender bids for retail concessions, understanding commercial terms and operational needs.

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 increasing sales and profitability across multiple retail stores.
• Deep understanding of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to manage diverse teams.
• Strong financial skills, including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibility.