Head of Trading

This senior leadership role oversees a portfolio of 13 high-performing, award-winning retail shops generating over £3.5m in annual sales. The role is responsible for maintaining and growing this performance through strong leadership of paid staff and volunteers, working closely with the central trading team and hospice colleagues.

The post holder balances commercial focus with creativity, accountability and strong people skills, supported by a genuine passion for retail excellence. Retail is a vital part of the hospice’s long-term success and sustainability.

The Hospice of St Francis provides free care across West Hertfordshire and South Buckinghamshire. Over 80% of its income comes from trading and fundraising. Our retail operation is one of the strongest in the sector, with innovative shop formats, committed volunteers and teams delivering excellent customer service.

Experience:
Extensive senior retail management experience across multiple sites or channels, ideally within a charity or values-led organisation. Demonstrated success in increasing sales income and net profit while maintaining strong cost control.

Growth & E-commerce:
Proven experience developing and growing online or e-commerce sales, alongside identifying and delivering new business opportunities, including expansion of shop portfolios.

Leadership:
Strong, inspirational leader with a track record of developing high-performing teams of staff and volunteers. Experienced in collaborative working with marketing and wider support teams.

Skills:
Highly commercially astute with strong analytical capability and a solid understanding of profit and loss. Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

Other:
Full UK driving licence and access to transport. Flexible approach to working hours, including weekends.

We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.