Head of Trading

D R Newitt Recruitment; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

D R Newitt Recruitment seeks a Head of Trading for a reputable discount retailer in the East Midlands. This pivotal leadership position involves managing a high-volume buying team to drive commercial strategies. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in discount retail, strong negotiation skills, and a proven track record of enhancing performance in a fast-paced environment. A generous salary package of £80-£100K plus benefits is offered for this role.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership track record in discount retail environments.
• Successful experience managing a buying team.
• Deep understanding of FMCG supply chain dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement trading strategies across FMCG categories.
• Lead and mentor the buying team to ensure performance.
• Negotiate with suppliers to secure market-leading deals.

Skills

Leadership in retail

Commercial acumen

Negotiation

Market analysis

Team management

Job description

Head of Trading – Nationwide Discount Retailer

Location: East Midlands

Salary: Range £80- £100K+ Car Allowance + Benefits

Our client is a household name in the UK discount retail sector. With hundreds of stores across the country, they provide millions of customers with essential FMCG goods and variety products at unbeatable prices.

On their behalf, we are seeking a commercially astute, high-energy Head of Trading to lead their buying function and drive the next phase of their growth strategy.

The Role

This is a pivotal leadership role within a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. As Head of Trading, you will take full ownership of the commercial P&L, managing a significant multi-million-pound spend. You will be responsible for a team of Buyers, Buying Assistants and a Merchandiser, providing the strategic vision and tactical support necessary for the discount market sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Direction: Define and implement a winning trading strategy across all FMCG and variety categories.
• Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and upskill your team, ensuring a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Sourcing & Negotiation: Lead high-stakes negotiations with global and domestic suppliers to secure market-leading deals.
• Market Agility: Monitor competitor activity and market trends to ensure the business remains the "first choice" for value-conscious shoppers.
• Operational Excellence: Oversee range reviews, promotional calendars, and stock sell-through to maximise margin and minimise obsolete stock.

Your Skills & Experience

You must be comfortable with the pace of discount retail and possess the gravitas to influence at Board level.

Requirements

• Discount Retail Experience (Essential): You must have a background in a high-volume, low-margin discount or variety retail environment.
• Leadership Track Record: Proven experience managing a buying team, with a focus on developing talent and driving performance.
• FMCG Expertise: A deep understanding of the FMCG landscape, including supply chain dynamics and consumer buying habits.
• Commercial Sharpness: A relentless focus on the "bottom line" with the ability to turn complex data into actionable trading plans.
• Adaptability: The ability to thrive in a rapid-fire environment where priorities can shift daily.

Why Apply?

This is a rare chance to join a major retailer in a high-impact role. You will have the autonomy to make significant commercial decisions and the satisfaction of seeing your strategy reflected on the shelves of hundreds of stores nationwide.