At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow The Art Group, driving financial performance and customer relationships.
- Company: Join a dynamic art and design company with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to shape the business.
- Other info: This is a unique opportunity for ambitious leaders passionate about art.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the art industry while leveraging your network.
- Qualifications: Senior commercial leadership experience and strong industry connections required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Art Group is seeking an exceptional commercial leader to take full ownership of the business unit, with responsibility for its strategic direction, financial performance, customer growth, and market position. This is a senior leadership role requiring an entrepreneurial individual who will operate with the mindset of a General Manager, taking full accountability for the business’s success. The successful candidate will drive profitable growth, manage the P&L, develop new customer relationships, identify market opportunities, and lead the business through its next phase of expansion.
We are looking for someone who is already well-connected within the art, gifting, home décor, and retail sectors and can leverage an established network of customers, artists, licensing partners, and industry contacts to create immediate commercial opportunities.
- Business Leadership & Ownership
- Assume full responsibility for the commercial performance of The Art Group business unit.
- Develop and execute the strategic growth plan.
- Lead and inspire cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious commercial objectives.
- Create a culture of accountability, innovation, and customer focus.
- Report on business performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Full P&L Responsibility
- Own and manage the complete Profit & Loss account.
- Deliver sustainable revenue growth and profitability.
- Develop annual budgets, forecasts, and strategic business plans.
- Monitor KPIs and implement actions to improve financial performance.
- Drive margin improvement and operational efficiencies.
- Customer Development & Business Growth
- Develop and strengthen relationships with existing key accounts.
- Identify and secure new customers across retail and international markets.
- Build strategic partnerships that drive long-term growth.
- Lead commercial negotiations with major customers and partners.
- Ideally bring an established portfolio of customer relationships and industry contacts capable of accelerating business growth.
- Market & Product Strategy
- Define the future direction of the product portfolio.
- Identify emerging consumer and retail trends.
- Ensure collections remain commercially relevant and differentiated.
- Work closely with design, sourcing, and sales teams to maximise opportunities.
- Oversee category development and product innovation.
- Artist & Industry Network
- Build relationships with established and emerging artists.
- Identify on-trend creative talent and licensing opportunities.
- Develop partnerships that enhance the uniqueness of The Art Group portfolio.
- Maintain a deep understanding of market trends and consumer behaviour.
The Ideal Candidate
- Significant senior commercial leadership experience with full P&L responsibility.
- Proven track record of growing and managing a business or business unit.
- Strong experience within art, gifting, home décor, lifestyle products, or related sectors.
- Established network of retail customers and industry contacts.
- Strong relationships with artists, licensing partners, or creative communities.
- Excellent strategic planning, negotiation, and leadership skills.
- Commercial acumen to identify opportunities and deliver profitable growth.
Personal Attributes
- Entrepreneurial and commercially driven.
- Strategic thinker with a hands-on leadership style.
- Highly influential relationship builder.
- Customer-focused and market-aware.
- Decisive and accountable.
- Passionate about art, design, and consumer trends.
This is not a traditional category management role. It is an opportunity to lead and grow The Art Group as a business in its own right. We are seeking an ambitious commercial leader who will take ownership of the business, drive its financial performance, expand its customer base, cultivate relationships with leading and emerging artists, and use their market knowledge and industry connections to deliver long-term sustainable growth.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Submit your CV with covering letter today. Closing date for applications: 7th July 2026.
Business Unit Manager in Whetstone employer: The Art Group
The Art Group is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture, encouraging entrepreneurial spirit and accountability among its team members. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, the company offers unique opportunities to lead in the art and retail sectors while leveraging established networks for commercial success. Located in a vibrant area, The Art Group provides a collaborative environment where creativity thrives, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals looking to make a meaningful impact.
