Head of Retail - Travel

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

Job summary

A leading company in the travel sector is seeking a Head of Retail to shape the retail strategy and oversee operations, starting on a part-time basis. This role requires extensive experience in high-volume retail, focusing on duty-free and travel retail environments, along with strong leadership to manage operational excellence and drive sales growth.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in high-volume retail, especially within duty-free or travel retail.
• Proven success in increasing sales and profitability across multiple retail stores.
• Deep understanding of duty-free operations and retail management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the retail strategy for duty-free and tender operations.
• Drive sales targets and profitability through effective merchandising and promotions.
• Oversee retail operations, including inventory and compliance with operational standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Financial Skills

Job description

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Head of Retail - Travel, Oxford District

Client:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Oxford District, 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. The position is initially on a contract basis with the possibility to become permanent, starting 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 management, working closely with Operators for retail execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the retail strategy for duty-free and tender operations, aligning with company goals and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability through effective merchandising, promotions, and team motivation.
• Oversee retail operations, including inventory, visual merchandising, store maintenance, and compliance with operational standards and regulations specific to duty-free and tender environments.
• Manage outlet implementation with Operators.
• Ensure exceptional customer service, providing a memorable shopping experience for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and prepare reports for senior management.
• Build relationships with authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and stakeholders in the duty-free ecosystem.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitors, and traveler demographics to identify new opportunities.
• Participate in developing competitive tender bids, 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 concessions.
• Proven success in increasing sales and profitability across multiple retail stores.
• Deep understanding of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to manage diverse teams.
• Financial skills including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.