At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the buying function and drive growth in a fast-paced retail environment.
- Company: A well-known UK discount retailer with hundreds of stores nationwide.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career advancement in a dynamic market.
- Why this job: Make impactful decisions that shape the shopping experience for millions.
- Qualifications: Experience in discount retail and proven leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
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.
Head of Trading - Nationwide Discount Retailer employer: Job Search Place Limited
As a leading name in the UK discount retail sector, our client offers an exceptional work environment characterised by a dynamic and entrepreneurial culture. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive team atmosphere. Located in the East Midlands, this role provides the unique chance to influence the trading strategy of a major retailer while enjoying the satisfaction of seeing your impact across hundreds of stores nationwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Trading - Nationwide Discount Retailer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Show them you know the discount retail landscape inside out, and be ready to discuss how you can drive their trading strategy forward.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Head of Trading, you'll need to lead high-stakes negotiations. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build your confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out, and applying directly shows your commitment to joining the team. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Trading - Nationwide Discount Retailer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Trading role. Highlight your experience in discount retail and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of your achievements in trading and team leadership that demonstrate your commercial sharpness and adaptability.
Showcase Your FMCG Knowledge:Since this role requires a deep understanding of the FMCG landscape, make sure to include relevant experiences that showcase your expertise. Discuss any successful negotiations or strategies you've implemented that have positively impacted the bottom line.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Head of Trading, you'll be expected to manage a significant P&L. Brush up on your financial acumen and be ready to discuss how you've driven profitability in previous roles. Bring specific examples of how your strategies have positively impacted the bottom line.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires strong team leadership. Be prepared to share your approach to mentoring and developing talent within your team. Highlight any successful initiatives you've led that fostered a culture of accountability and excellence.
✨Demonstrate Market Awareness
Stay updated on current trends in the discount retail sector. Be ready to discuss competitor activities and how you would position the company as the 'first choice' for value-conscious shoppers. Showing that you understand the market landscape will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Negotiation is key in this role. Think of past experiences where you successfully negotiated with suppliers. Prepare to discuss your strategies and outcomes, as well as how you handle high-stakes situations. This will demonstrate your commercial sharpness and adaptability.
