Head of Trading – BWST (Beers, Wines, Spirits & Tobacco)
Location: London (Onsite)
Salary: Six-figure base salary + Exec level benefits
The Business
Our client is a leading UK retail and wholesale business operating a large multi-site estate alongside a significant independent retail partner network. With continued investment across commercial capability, category development, and customer proposition, the business is entering an exciting phase of growth and transformation.
The BWST category is a key commercial area for the organisation, representing a major contributor across both retail and wholesale channels. This role offers the opportunity to shape long-term category strategy within a highly competitive and fast-moving market.
The Role
As Head of BWST, you will lead the strategic direction and commercial performance of the Beers, Wines, Spirits & Tobacco category across the business. Managing a sizeable category portfolio, you will be responsible for delivering profitable growth through category strategy, supplier partnerships, pricing, promotions, and customer-led innovation.
Working closely with senior stakeholders across commercial, operations, marketing, finance, and supply chain, you will play a key role in driving market share, customer engagement, and overall category performance.
Key responsibilities include:
• Develop and execute the long-term BWST category strategy across retail and wholesale channels
• Deliver sales, margin, and market share growth across all areas of the category
• Lead annual commercial planning, budgeting, and forecasting activity
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships and joint business plans with key partners
• Drive category range reviews, product innovation, and customer proposition development
• Own pricing architecture and promotional strategy to maximise profitability and competitiveness
• Use market insight, customer data, and industry trends to identify opportunities for growth and optimisation
• Lead and develop a high-performing commercial and category team
• Work cross-functionally to ensure successful execution of category initiatives across stores and partner networks
• Monitor competitor activity and evolving consumer trends across convenience and wholesale retail
About You
• Significant experience within BWST buying, category management, or commercial leadership roles
• Strong understanding of the UK retail, convenience, or wholesale landscape
• Proven track record of delivering commercial growth and category performance at scale
• Experience managing strategic supplier relationships and high-value negotiations
• Strong analytical and financial acumen with a data-led approach to decision making
• Effective people leadership skills with experience developing and leading teams
• Highly commercial, customer-focused, and results driven
• Strong communication and stakeholder management capability
• Comfortable operating within a fast-paced and evolving retail environment
What’s on Offer
• Competitive base salary
• Performance-related bonus
• Car allowance
• Onsite working
• 22 days Holiday
• Pension and wider benefits package
Please contact Chris Gregg, quoting ref 2734:, with your CV and remuneration details to tonyg@anthonygregg.com