Competitive Salary, plus Company Car (or Car Allowance) plus excellent benefits package. Location: Willenhall (West Midlands).
We have an exciting opportunity for a Trading Controller, who is passionate about their role in offering excellent service and standards to our customers. We are looking for someone who is motivated, friendly, and able to work on own initiative and able to raise concerns where appropriate.
To maximise sales, cash margin and percentage GP within a range of defined commodity groups through effective negotiations, promotions, and range management. To optimise the supply chain ensuring full availability of product range whilst working within agreed stock holding parameters specifically the stock value targets set by the business. Short dates, Quarantined and Eliminated stock must be controlled to ensure that there is minimal impact to the bottom line.
Deliver annual sales, profit and supplier income in line with the budgeted ask
To negotiate an annual JBP for all key suppliers which incorporates a planned promotional activity plan which is effective, competitive and supplier funded this JBP must drive the performance of sales and cash profit for the group
Negotiate annual trading terms which are favourable to the previous trading year with all key suppliers. These terms must be able to deliver the budgeted supplier income budget number
Develop new initiatives and areas of business which will drive incremental sales and therefore cash profit year on year
Maintain prices in line with Wholesale and Retail policies
Work in conjunction with Sales and Operational teams across the business to ensure that all areas are profitable
Source, interpret and then make recommendations relating to any significant market changes that may impact performance in the market for the defined areas of control
Working internally with supply chain and externally with suppliers to forecast stock requirements including promotions and seasonal fluctuations
Minimum of 5 years as a Buyer / Trader within a leading Wholesaler or Retailer. A combination of both is highly desirable
Previous experience in a similar role managing people, with a track record of success is essential
Demonstrable experience in managing categories from procurement of stock through to marketing and delivery to the consumer
Excellent industry knowledge, including specific product knowledge, to deliver a targeted offering to customers
Experience of negotiating with senior personnel within ‘Blue Chip’ suppliers
We are a dynamic and innovative retail, wholesale and foodservice business, committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and staying at the forefront of industry trends. A company that now owns 303 SPAR convenience stores and employs more than 6,000 people, with a turnover of £1.3 billion.
What's in it for you?
Develop your skills and capability in a highly supportive and multi-diverse culture
Outstanding Training & Development
Gain hands-on experience in a high volume, fast paced environment Excellent benefits package including:
Holiday, Maternity and Paternity leave and pay in excess of statutory entitlements
Generous staff discount in all our SPAR stores (excl. Alcohol & Cigarettes)
Proactive promotion of internal candidates
24/7 access to your payslips and Rotas via HR/Payroll portal
Wellbeing support – access to emotional support, counselling, legal and financial advice
Company Pension Scheme
NEST pension scheme
Company Life Insurance worth 1 x Annual Salary and 6 x Annual Salary with Company Pension Scheme
Extra Holidays - Purchase Scheme
Long Service Awards
Inclusive environment: as a Disability Confident Committed employer we are dedicated to creating a fair, inclusive workplace for all. We offer a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role.
You may have experience in the following: Category Manager, Buyer, Senior Buyer, Trading Manager, Commercial Manager, Range Manager, Procurement Manager, Merchandiser, Wholesale Trading Manager, Retail Buyer, Supply Chain Manager, Trading Analyst etc.
Neutral 2–4 sentence summary of what working at this company is like, drawn from public reviews and press coverage. Tone, collaboration style, pace, benefits highlights.
£45,000 – £60,000 (Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, 2025)
