Trading Manager

TN United Kingdom; Preston; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a talented individual to join their team in Preston. This role focuses on developing supplier relationships and enhancing product offerings to drive sales and profitability. You will leverage your strong negotiation skills and retail knowledge to manage product categories effectively. The company values its employees and offers a supportive work environment, along with benefits such as enhanced holidays, a company doctor, and access to learning and development programs. If you are passionate about retail and eager to contribute to a long-standing family business, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Loyalty Award

Company Doctor

Free On-site Parking

Enhanced Holiday Package

Learning & Development

Grocery Aid

Staff Discount

Cycle to Work Scheme

Christmas Hamper

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in retail or wholesale buying.
• Proven track record of achieving financial targets.

Responsibilities

• Manage trading performance of multiple product categories.
• Drive sales growth and maximize profitability through supplier negotiations.

Skills

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Retail Knowledge

Microsoft Office

Education

Experience in Retail/Wholesale Buying

Job description

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Based at our contemporary head office and distribution centre on the outskirts of Preston, James Hall & Co. Ltd. have been established for over 150 years proudly serving communities across the north of England as supplier and distributor to over 400 SPAR stores.

We are proud to be one of the biggest employers in Lancashire with over 4000 colleagues who represent our core values of passion, enterprise and family every single day.

About the Role

To be responsible for developing effective supplier relationships, sourcing a range of products to create greater value into our stores and wholesale business through fast paced negotiations.

Here’s What You Can Expect to be Doing

In this role, you will be responsible for managing the trading performance of multiple product categories, driving sales growth, and maximising profitability. With strong negotiation skills and a keen understanding of retail trends, you will work closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure a competitive and high-quality product offering.

• Manage the price file and ensure accurate pricing across designated product categories.
• Drive cost reductions while maintaining product quality.
• Develop and implement effective promotional and seasonal plans.
• Maximise sales revenue, profit margins, and supplier income.
• Support the achievement of service level targets.
• Demonstrate strong retail, supplier, market, and product knowledge.
• Lead supplier negotiations to secure the best pricing and promotional opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant commercial regulations.
• Select and source products, implementing effective exit strategies where necessary.
• Stay informed on retail trends, competitor activities, and market demands.
• Work collaboratively with Trading colleagues to optimise cost efficiencies.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships to identify opportunities for cost savings and business growth.
• Accurately forecast promotions and seasonal activity, liaising with suppliers and stock teams.
• Conduct regular store visits to ensure a relevant and competitive product offering.
• Ensure compliance with UKCA, UL, and EC legislation.
• Perform ongoing product benchmarking to maintain a competitive edge.

A Few Things About You

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in retail or wholesale buying/ relevant commercial roles.
• Proven track record of results delivery and achieving financial targets.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills; able to close deals.
• Good understanding of Microsoft Office applications.
• Energetic, enthusiastic and drive to deliver results.
• Able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Strong analytical and decision-making ability.
• Team player.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal with relevant stakeholders.
• Able to develop strong working relationships both internally and externally.
• Ability to influence colleagues, customers and suppliers at all levels.

Why us?

James Hall & Co. Ltd. have one simple vison: to still be in business in another 50 years!

To make this vision possible we need the best talent to join us on our journey. We are a family company and believe that if we look after our people, they will look after us.

Here are some of the benefits that you can take advantage of as an employee of James Hall & Co. Ltd.

Loyalty award – From day one you will receive £0.25p per hour for every hour you work. You will then receive this as a lump sum on the pay period after your 12 month anniversary.

Company Doctor – We care about the health and wellbeing of our people. That is why you will have access to our company doctor with the ability to book appointments directly.

Free On-site Parking - You don’t have to worry about paying for parking or getting from your car to the office as our site boasts a secure car park with over 1000 spaces.

Holidays – Everyone needs a break so as an employee of James Hall & Co. Ltd. you will receive our enhanced holiday package of 22 days holidays per year plus bank holidays (unless otherwise stated). Holiday entitlement increases with continuous service every two years

Learning & Development – We want all of our colleagues to reach their full potential. That is why you will benefit from our in-house learning and development team who will provide you access to fully funded accredited training and industry recognised qualifications.

Grocery Aid – We understand the importance of mental health. We work with the national charity Grocery Aid to provide all colleagues a 24/7 helpline service that is free, independent and confidential. Grocery Aid also offer a wide range of other fantastic services to support you when you need it.

We also offer staff discount, cycle to work scheme and our famous Christmas Hamper!