Trading Manager

Job description

Job title: Trading Manager

Salary: £50k + 10% bonus

Location: NW London

A leading retail trading business is seeking an experienced Trading Manager to join its central team. This role will play a key part in driving national category performance through the development and execution of commercial strategies, leading hands-on supplier negotiations, and working closely with regional teams and suppliers.

The successful candidate must be a strong and proven negotiator, with direct experience of negotiating supplier terms and delivering commercially favourable outcomes. This is a hands-on role requiring strong commercial acumen, excellent stakeholder management, and the ability to deliver measurable results in a fast-paced environment. Occasional travel may be required to regional distribution centres and supplier sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category plans to improve cost efficiency, margins, and availability
• Lead and personally conduct national supplier negotiations, securing volume-based and time-based contracts
• Own income forecasting and deliver against category income targets
• Drive category reviews and agree national ranges and supplier strategies with regional teams
• Create and manage promotional plans aligned to wider marketing themes
• Manage supplier performance, risk, and improvement plans
• Negotiate cost price increases directly with suppliers and stakeholders, managing communication throughout the process
• Support product availability and resolve supply issues across categories
• Identify seasonal opportunities and manage exit and clearance strategies
• Maintain awareness of legislation and product safety impacts
• Support junior team members and contribute to wider commercial projects

About You

• Proven experience in trading, buying, or category management within retail/FMCG
• Strong, demonstrable negotiation experience, with a track record of personally leading supplier discussions and securing commercial advantage
• Confident analysing data and using insight to drive decisions
• Highly organised, adaptable, and able to work to deadlines
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence and build relationships
• Proficient in Excel and Microsoft Office
• Degree or equivalent commercial training advantageous but not essential

What’s on Offer

• A high-impact commercial role with real ownership and influence
• Hybrid working and flexible environment
• Exposure to senior stakeholders and regional teams
• Strong development and progression opportunities

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

London Area

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

08-05-2026

Profession type

Retail

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English