Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Lincoln; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the travel sector is looking for a Head of Retail to implement strategic initiatives in duty-free environments. The successful candidate will oversee retail operations, manage budgets, and build strong stakeholder relationships, ensuring a customer-centric approach. This role starts part-time and evolves into a permanent position, offering a lucrative salary based on experience.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in high-volume retail.
• Strong track record in increasing sales and profitability.
• Knowledge of duty-free operations and retail management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategy for duty-free operations.
• Drive sales targets through effective merchandising.
• Manage retail operations and compliance with standards.
• Build relationships with authorities and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Budget Management

Job description

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The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Lincoln, 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 an initial contract-to-permanent basis. The role starts part-time (1-2 days per week initially, increasing over time).

The Head of Retail will oversee overall retail strategy and execution, including Duty Free and Operator tender processes, management, and implementation, working closely with Operators for retail execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the retail strategy for duty-free and tender, aligning with company objectives 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 specific to duty-free and tender environments.
• Manage and execute outlet implementation with operators.
• Ensure a customer-centric approach, delivering exceptional service to international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and prepare regular commercial reports for senior management.
• Build relationships with authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and stakeholders in the duty-free and tender sectors.
• Stay informed on industry trends, competitors, and traveler demographics to identify new opportunities.
• Participate in preparing competitive tender bids for retail concessions, understanding commercial 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.
• Successful track record in increasing sales and profitability across multiple stores.
• Strong knowledge of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Financial skills including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibility.