Trading Controller Willenhall Head Office Group Trading

Location: Willenhall (West Midlands). We have an exciting opportunity for a Trading Controller, who is passionate about their role in offering excellent service and standards to our customers. We are looking for someone who is motivated, friendly, able to work on their own initiative, and able to raise concerns where appropriate.

We are a dynamic and innovative retail, wholesale and foodservice business, committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and staying at the forefront of industry trends. A company that now owns 303 SPAR convenience stores and employs more than 6,000 people, with a turnover of £1.3 billion.

The key purpose of this role is:

• To maximise sales, cash margin and percentage GP within a range of defined commodity groups through effective negotiations, promotions, and range management.
• To optimise the supply chain ensuring full availability of product range whilst working within agreed stock holding parameters specifically the stock value targets set by the business.
• Short dates, Quarantined and Eliminated stock must be controlled to ensure that there is minimal impact to the bottom line.

Some Key Accountabilities:

• Deliver annual sales, profit and supplier income in line with the budgeted ask.
• Negotiate an annual JBP for all key suppliers which incorporates a planned promotional activity plan which is effective, competitive and supplier funded; this JBP must drive the performance of sales and cash profit for the group.
• Negotiate annual trading terms which are favourable to the previous trading year with all key suppliers. These terms must be able to deliver the budgeted supplier income budget number.
• Develop new initiatives and areas of business which will drive incremental sales and therefore cash profit year on year.
• Maintain prices in line with Wholesale and Retail policies.
• Work in conjunction with Sales and Operational teams across the business to ensure that all areas are profitable.
• Source, interpret and then make recommendations relating to any significant market changes that may impact performance in the market for the defined areas of control.
• Work internally with supply chain and externally with suppliers to forecast stock requirements including promotions and seasonal fluctuations.

Some Key Knowledge, Skills, Experience and Qualifications Required:

• Minimum of 5 years as a Buyer / Trader within a leading Wholesaler or Retailer. A combination of both is highly desirable.
• Previous experience in a similar role managing people, with a track record of success is essential.
• Demonstrable experience in managing categories from procurement of stock through to marketing and delivery to the consumer.
• Excellent industry knowledge, including specific product knowledge, to deliver a targeted offering to customers.
• Experience of negotiating with senior personnel within ‘Blue Chip’ suppliers.

What’s in it for you?

• Develop your skills and capability in a highly supportive and multi-diverse culture.
• Gain hands-on experience in a high volume, fast paced environment.
• Excellent benefits package including: Holiday, Maternity and Paternity leave and pay in excess of statutory entitlements.
• Generous staff discount in all our SPAR stores (excl. Alcohol & Cigarettes).
• Proactive promotion of internal candidates.
• 24/7 access to your payslips and Rotas via HR/Payroll portal.
• Wellbeing support – access to emotional support, counselling, legal and financial advice.
• Company Pension Scheme.
• Company Life Insurance worth 1 x Annual Salary and 6 x Annual Salary with Company Pension Scheme.
• Long Service Awards.
• Inclusive environment: as a Disability Confident Committed employer we are dedicated to creating a fair, inclusive workplace for all. We offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role.

Closing date for applications: 18th September, 2026.