Trading Manager

Position: Trading Manager
Industry: Retail (Modern Supermart)
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Job Type: Full Time

Job Description (Summary)
As the Trading Manager, you will oversee the trading activities within Fresh-mark, with a focus on optimizing product availability, implementing competitive pricing strategies, and enhancing the overall customer experience. Your responsibilities will span across sales performance, inventory management, merchandising, pricing, and team leadership. You will work closely with store teams to ensure our stores are well-stocked, visually appealing, and competitive in the local market.
Trading and Sales Performance:
Monitor daily, weekly, and monthly sales performance, identifying trends and opportunities for growth.
Implement strategies to maximize sales, including promotions, price changes, and cross-selling initiatives.
Analyse and act on sales data, customer behaviour, and market trends to drive in-store sales.
Collaborate with the marketing team to ensure promotional campaigns are effectively executed at the store level.
Inventory Management:
Ensure stock levels are optimized to meet customer demand without overstocking.
Work closely with supply chain and store teams to manage inventory flow and minimize stock shortages.
Conduct regular stock checks and collaborate on replenishment to ensure key products are always available.
Merchandising and Store Layout:
Oversee the layout and presentation of the store to ensure product displays are attractive and engaging to customers.
Ensure that merchandising strategies align with seasonal campaigns, promotions, and sales objectives.
Implement planograms and visual merchandising standards to enhance the customer shopping experience.
Price Management:
Monitor and manage pricing strategies to ensure competitiveness in the local market.
Work with store management to review product pricing, ensuring it reflects market conditions and company objectives.
Implement markdowns and clearance pricing as needed to clear old or slow-moving inventory.
Team Leadership and Development:
Lead and motivate department managers and category managers to achieve sales targets and deliver exceptional customer service.
Provide coaching and development opportunities to team members to enhance their skills and performance.
Conduct regular performance reviews and set clear objectives for the trading team.
Customer Experience and Feedback:
Ensure a high standard of customer service is delivered at all times.
Act on customer feedback to improve store operations and meet customer needs more effectively.
Engage with customers to understand their preferences and adapt store offerings accordingly.
Commercial Planning:
Develop and execute a commercial plan for the store, considering seasonal trends, local market conditions, and sales data.
Collaborate with store managers and category managers to create sales forecasts and budgets.
Ensure the store is prepared for key trading periods, including holidays, sales events, and product launches.
Compliance and Operational Standards:
Ensure the store complies with all company policies, legal requirements, and health and safety standards.
Work with store management to maintain high operational standards, including cleanliness, stockroom organization, and staff presentation.

Required Qualifications & Experience
· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail Management, or related field preferred.
· 7+ years of experience in a retail environment, with at least 2 years in a senior leadership role.
· Proven track record of driving sales and managing trading activities in a retail setting.
· Strong understanding of retail metrics, KPIs, and financial performance.
· Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.