At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting IT projects that enhance stock accuracy and streamline retail operations.
- Company: Join VPZ, the UK's top vape retailer with over 190 locations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and enjoy opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced retail setting while driving tech innovation.
- Qualifications: 6+ years in IT project management, especially in retail environments.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
VPZ is the UK’s number one vape retailer. Since opening our first store in Edinburgh, we've expanded to over 190 locations across the UK and we're not stopping there. We are known for setting and driving the standards within the vape industry, this is a great chance to join us as we continue to grow.
About the Role
We’re seeking an experienced IT Project Manager to lead the delivery of critical technology projects across a fast-paced, multi‑site retail environment. This is a high impact, high visibility role where you’ll take full ownership of the project lifecycle and deliver solutions that directly improve stock accuracy, optimise replenishment, and keep stores trading efficiently. You’ll play a key role in shaping and delivering initiatives across our core retail systems, including RCS Streetwise, EPOS tills, stock and inventory management tools, and supply chain integrations. Working at the heart of the business, you’ll collaborate closely with retail operations, buying, warehouse, finance, and store teams to translate real‑world challenges into effective, scalable IT solutions.
Responsibilities
- Lead end‑to‑end delivery of complex IT projects, ensuring they are on time, on budget, and high quality
- Manage full project lifecycles using Prince2, Agile, or hybrid methodologies
- Deliver projects including system upgrades, EPOS rollouts, RFID/stock scanning solutions, EDI integrations, and new store openings/refits
- Coordinate cross‑functional teams across IT, third‑party vendors, and external partners
- Provide clear reporting, dashboards, and updates to senior leadership and stakeholders
- Identify and manage risks, particularly around peak trading periods such as Black Friday and Christmas
- Drive continuous improvement within project delivery and governance
What success looks like:
- Improved stock accuracy and visibility
- Reduced out‑of‑stocks and shrinkage
- Faster, more efficient replenishment cycles
- Seamless integration between systems and store operations
What you’ll bring:
- 6+ years’ IT project management experience, including 4+ years in retail environments
- Strong hands‑on experience with retail systems (RCS Streetwise or similar, EPOS, inventory platforms)
- Deep understanding of stock management processes, including replenishment, allocation, and warehouse integration
- Proven track record delivering projects using structured methodologies (Prince2, Agile, Scrum)
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage everyone from store teams to senior leadership
- Experience managing third‑party vendors and integration projects (EDI, APIs, data feeds)
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel
- Prince2 Practitioner and/or Agile certification
- Background in fashion, grocery, or high‑volume retail
- Experience with WMS, forecasting tools, or e‑commerce stock systems
- Familiarity with tools such as ServiceNow, Jira, MS Project, or Monday.com
- Knowledge of data migration, cutover planning, and hyper‑care support
Please ensure you apply with an up‑to‑date CV. Applicants must be 18 years old or above, any subsequent job offer is subject to pre‑employment screening and right to work checks.
IT Project Manager employer: VPZ
At VPZ, we pride ourselves on being the UK's leading vape retailer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. As an IT Project Manager, you'll have the opportunity to lead impactful technology projects that enhance our retail operations while benefiting from a culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With over 190 locations across the UK, we provide a unique chance to make a significant difference in a fast-paced industry, all while enjoying competitive benefits and a commitment to continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and join relevant online groups. 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 VPZ and understanding their core values and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around stock management and IT solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your project management skills by discussing specific examples of past projects. Highlight your use of methodologies like Prince2 or Agile, and how they led to successful outcomes in retail environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the VPZ team.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the IT Project Manager role. Highlight your experience with retail systems and project management methodologies like Prince2 and Agile. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of projects you've led that improved stock accuracy or optimised replenishment. This helps us see the impact you've made in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to understand your experience and skills.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to submit your up-to-date CV directly to us. Let’s get your application rolling!
How to prepare for a job interview at VPZ
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the retail systems mentioned in the job description, like RCS Streetwise and EPOS. Brush up on your knowledge of stock management processes and be ready to discuss how you've successfully implemented similar systems in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with different project management methodologies like Prince2 and Agile. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate how you’ve led complex IT projects from start to finish, especially in a retail environment.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your stakeholder management skills by discussing how you’ve effectively communicated with various teams, from store staff to senior leadership. Share examples of how you’ve navigated challenges and ensured everyone was on the same page during a project.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
Think about potential challenges that could arise during peak trading periods, like Black Friday. Be ready to discuss how you would identify and manage risks, ensuring smooth project delivery even in high-pressure situations.
