Head of Retail - Travel

JR United Kingdom; Wakefield; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading travel brand seeks a Head of Retail in Wakefield to develop and execute their retail strategy. This part-time role requires extensive experience in retail management, particularly in duty-free environments. The successful candidate will drive profitability, oversee operations, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

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.
• Strong knowledge of duty-free operations and retail management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the retail strategy for duty-free and tenders.
• Drive sales targets and oversee retail operations.
• Manage budgets and prepare commercial reports for senior management.

Skills

Retail Management

Sales Strategy

Team Leadership

Budgeting

Inventory Management

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

Location:

Wakefield, 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 that is looking for a Head of Retail. The position starts as a part-time contract (1-2 days per week initially, with potential for increase) and may become permanent.

The Head of Retail will be responsible for the overall retail strategy and execution, including Duty Free and Operator tenders, management, and implementation. This involves working closely with Operators to ensure successful retail execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the retail strategy for duty-free and tenders, 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 and regulations for duty-free and tenders.
• Manage and execute outlet implementations with operators.
• Ensure a customer-centric approach to provide 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 sectors.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and traveler demographics to identify opportunities and inform strategy.
• Participate in developing and overseeing competitive tender bids for retail concessions, understanding commercial terms 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.
• Proven success in increasing sales and profitability across multiple retail stores.
• Strong knowledge of duty-free operations, retail management, and concession agreements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills to motivate and manage diverse teams.
• Financial expertise, including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management.