Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Luton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading travel brand is seeking a Head of Retail to join their team in Luton. This role will involve developing and implementing retail strategies for duty-free environments, ensuring exceptional customer experiences, and managing operations across multiple locations. The position requires extensive experience in high-volume retail and a strong ability to drive sales and profitability. Candidates with a background in international concessions are especially encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years experience in high-volume retail, especially in duty-free
• Proven success in driving sales growth and profitability
• Strong understanding of duty-free operations and retail management

Responsibilities

• Develop overall retail strategy aligning with market trends
• Drive sales targets and oversee retail operations
• Manage budgets and analyze sales data

Skills

Retail management

Sales growth

Leadership

Budget management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Job description

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Head of Retail - Travel, Luton, Bedfordshire

Client:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Luton, Bedfordshire, 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 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 tenders, aligning with company objectives and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability across all stores through effective merchandising, promotions, and motivation of sales teams.
• 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 implementations with operators.
• Ensure a customer-centric approach, providing exceptional service and a memorable shopping experience for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and report regularly to senior management.
• Build and maintain relationships with authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and other stakeholders in the duty-free and tender ecosystem.
• Stay updated on industry trends, competitor activities, and traveler demographics to identify new opportunities and inform strategy.
• Participate in and oversee the development of competitive tender bids for retail concessions, demonstrating understanding of commercial 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 across multiple retail stores.
• Strong understanding of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Financial acumen, including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibility.