Head of Retail - Travel

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

Job summary

A leading travel brand seeks a Head of Retail on an initial part-time contract, transitioning to full-time. The role focuses on retail strategy, sales growth, and maximizing profitability in duty-free environments. Candidates should have significant experience in high-volume retail management and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement retail strategy for duty-free and tender.
• Drive sales targets and profitability across all stores.
• Oversee retail operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Financial acumen

Job description

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The Change Partners - Global talent specialists for a connected world

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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 the 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 tender, aligning with company objectives and market trends.
• Drive sales targets and profitability across all stores through effective merchandising, promotions, and sales team motivation.
• Oversee all aspects of retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, store maintenance, and adherence to operational standards and regulations specific to duty-free and tender environments.
• Manage and execute outlet implementation with operators.
• Champion a customer-centric approach, ensuring exceptional service and a memorable shopping experience for international travelers.
• Manage budgets, analyze sales data, control costs, and provide regular reports to senior management.
• Build and maintain relationships with relevant authorities, concessionaires, brand partners, and stakeholders in the duty-free and tender ecosystem.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitors, and traveler demographics to identify opportunities and inform strategy.
• Participate in developing competitive tender bids for retail concessions, demonstrating understanding of commercial terms 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 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.