Head of Retail - Travel

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

Job summary

A leading travel brand seeks a Head of Retail for an initial part-time contract in Leeds. The role involves developing retail strategies, driving sales across stores, and overseeing compliance in a high-volume duty-free environment. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in retail management and a strong background in the travel and duty-free sectors.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years experience in high-volume retail, especially in duty-free or travel retail.
• Proven success in driving sales growth and managing a multi-store portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategy for duty-free and tender.
• Oversee operations including inventory management and compliance.
• Manage budgets and analyze sales data.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial Acumen

Job description

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Head of Retail - Travel, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Client:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Leeds, West Yorkshire, 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 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 the overall retail strategy and execution, including Duty Free and Operator tender management and implementation, working closely with Operators for retail execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the overall retail strategy for duty-free and tender, aligning with company objectives and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability across all stores 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 tender environments.
• Manage and execute outlet implementation with Operators.
• Ensure a customer-centric approach, delivering exceptional service and a memorable shopping experience for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyse sales data, control costs, and provide regular reports to 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 new opportunities and inform strategies.
• Participate in and oversee the development of competitive tender bids for retail concessions, demonstrating understanding of commercial terms and operational requirements.

Your background:

• Minimum of 5 years 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 in a multi-store retail portfolio.
• Strong understanding of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to manage diverse teams.
• Financial acumen, including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibility.