Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Swindon; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading company in the travel sector is seeking to recruit a Head of Retail to develop and execute the retail strategy for duty-free and tender environments. This role involves managing diverse teams, driving sales, and ensuring exceptional customer service for international travelers. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in high-volume retail, particularly in duty-free or international concession settings.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years in high-volume retail with experience in duty-free.
• Proven success in increasing sales and profitability.
• Deep understanding of duty-free operations and retail management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the retail strategy for duty-free and tender.
• Oversee retail operations and ensure customer service excellence.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, and report to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Financial Management

Sales Target Achievement

Job description

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Head of Retail - Travel, Swindon, Wiltshire

Client:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Swindon, Wiltshire, 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. The role starts 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, collaborating 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, visual merchandising, store maintenance, and compliance with operational standards in duty-free and tender environments.
• Manage outlet implementation with Operators.
• Ensure exceptional customer service, creating a memorable shopping experience for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and report to 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 opportunities.
• Participate in developing competitive tender bids, understanding commercial and operational aspects.

Your background:

• At least 5 years in high-volume retail, with significant experience in duty-free, travel retail, airports/rail, or similar international concession environments.
• Proven success in increasing sales and profitability across multiple 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.