Retail Sales Manager
Application Deadline: 10 April 2026
Department: Shared Support Services
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Basildon
Reporting To: Darron McLoughlin
Description
We’re looking for a driven and hands‑on Retail Sales Manager to lead and develop our field‑based merchandising team across the Basildon and Colchester region. This is a target‑focused role at the heart of our newspaper and magazine copy sales operation, where strong leadership, commercial thinking and outstanding in‑store execution make a real difference.
If you thrive in a fast‑paced retail environment, enjoy motivating people, and are passionate about delivering results on the ground, this could be the perfect next step for you.
As Retail Sales Manager, you will take ownership of copy sales performance across your region, leading a small team of merchandisers to maximise sales through the retail outlets we supply. You’ll work closely with major retailers and internal teams to ensure our products are highly visible, well‑promoted and consistently represented in‑store.
This is a practical, field‑based role combining people management, retailer engagement and commercial decision‑making, with clear accountability for results.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, motivate and develop a field‑based merchandising team
* Ensure sales territories, call cycles and daily plans are clearly defined and delivered
* Conduct regular dual‑calling with team members, providing coaching and written feedback
* Build and maintain strong relationships with key retail partners and newsagents
* Work closely with promotions, editorial and commercial teams to effectively promote content that drives newspaper and magazine sales
* Ensure point‑of‑sale materials are current, consistent and on‑brand across all outlets
* Manage availability and waste targets, identifying opportunities for improvement
* Identify new sales opportunities and alternative retail outlets
* Contribute ideas to improve efficiency and reduce costs, including logistics
* Report sales performance accurately and consistently for your titles
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
* Proven experience in retail sales or field sales management (preferred, but training will be provided for the right candidate)
* Strong leadership, communication and people management skills
* Commercially focused, highly organised and results‑driven
* Confident engaging with retailers and overcoming objections
* Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, time‑critical environment
* Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel across the region
Benefits and D&I Statement
* Competitive salary + commission capped at 25% of remuneration
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
* Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
* Structured career progression & ongoing training
* Pension plan
* Employee Helpline counselling and advice
* Perks & discounts including:
o Gym membership
o Cycle to Work scheme
o Eye care
o Retail discounts
* Team building days & annual volunteer charity day
Newsquest Media Group is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all community sections regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Our recruitment process will consist of various stages and activities. As part of our commitment to fairness to all applicants, we will take into account any adjustments that could help you.
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