Head of Retail

Healthy animals and happy owners – that’s the goal. We are IVC Evidensia, and we are on a mission to build the world’s best veterinary group. Investing in people, premises and processes, we deliver outstanding care in around 2,500 locations globally.

About the role

We are looking for a UK Head of Retail to join our Operations Senior Leadership team, responsible for the strategic direction and operational excellence of the company's retail ranges and inventory management. The role requires a strong leader with proven experience in managing complex, multi-channel retail operations and inventory management in a fast-paced environment. This role has three key focus areas:

• Driving sales growth through an improved client proposition both in-practice and online, as well as growing engagement of our practice teams in our retail offering.
• Managing key retail vendor relationships as well as reviewing wholesaler performance to improve service for our network of practices across the UK.
• Supporting better inventory management in-clinic, providing best practice process guidance, leading on improving reporting for our teams and supporting systems development.

What will you do as our Head of Retail

• Develop and implement the UK retail strategy, aligning with overall business objectives.
• Work in close partnership with Field Operations to maintain standards and execute change.
• Build engagement with teams in practice on our retail proposition, through a well-timed and targeted comms and engagement plan.
• Drive sales growth and profitability across in-clinic and the Pet Health Club online shop.
• Analyse sales data and market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement.
• Manage retail budgets, including marketing, and operational expenses.
• Lead and develop the retail commercial team, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the planning and execution of retail promotions and events.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant retail regulations and legislation.
• Develop strong working relationships with suppliers to deliver agreed joint business plans.

Inventory Management:

• Take a leading role on inventory management, including stock takes, developing best practice and engagement with key stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and logistics partners, implementing performance management frameworks where relevant alongside the Commercial function.
• Lead the development of inventory control systems to improve inventory management and manage legal & compliance requirements, working with key stakeholders in IT and Commercial teams.
• Manage supply chain risks and develop contingency plans in partnership with inventory stakeholders.
• Monitor and report on key inventory performance indicators (KPIs).

Leadership & Management:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the retail team.
• Develop and motivate team members, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.
• Set clear performance objectives and provide regular feedback.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., marketing, finance, e-commerce) to achieve business goals.

What skills will the Head of Retail bring to the role

• Proven experience in a senior retail and inventory management role, ideally within the UK market.
• Strong understanding of retail operations, inventory management, and logistics.
• Demonstrated ability to drive sales growth and improve operational efficiency.
• Excellent leadership and management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
• Strong commercial acumen and financial awareness.
• Knowledge of UK retail regulations and legislation.
• Inventory management, or a related field (preferred).
• Experience within the veterinary industry highly beneficial, but not essential.

About you

You will be a strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. You will have the ability to inspire others, be proactive and self-motivated. Customer-focused and passionate about delivering excellent service, communication and interpersonal skills. You will be highly organised, detail-oriented, adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

What we offer

At IVC Evidensia we recognise that our people are fundamental to the success of our business. Investing in our people, premises and processes is at the heart of what we do. In addition to a competitive base salary, you will benefit from:

• Discretionary Bonus
• Discounted staff pet care
• Company pension
• Family-Friendly policies
• EAP and supportive well-being programmes

Following receipt of your application, you will be contacted by one of our experienced recruitment team. At IVC Evidensia we are committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.

IVC Evidensia UK

IVC Evidensia, The Chocolate Factory, Keynsham, BS31 2AU, United Kingdom

Any questions before applying? Speak to Danielle Hughes from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.