Head of Retail - Travel

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

Job summary

A leading international travel brand seeks a Head of Retail to develop and execute retail strategy, focusing on duty-free operations. This part-time position offers a chance to significantly impact sales performance and customer experience in a high-volume retail environment. Applicants should have substantial experience in retail management and a strong understanding of operational complexities within international concessions.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in high-volume retail, especially within duty-free.
• Proven success in a multi-store retail portfolio.
• Strong understanding of duty-free operations and concession agreements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategy for duty-free and tenders.
• Drive sales and profitability through merchandising and promotions.
• Manage retail operations including inventory and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Sales Growth

Financial Acumen

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

5

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 overall retail strategy and execution, including duty-free and operator tender management, and working 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 sales 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, 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 updated on industry trends, competitors, and traveler demographics to identify opportunities and inform strategies.
• 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 in a multi-store retail portfolio.
• Strong understanding of duty-free operational complexities, retail operations, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and manage diverse teams.
• Financial acumen, including budget management, forecasting, and P&L responsibility.