
Location
Southbank, London
Hours
Full Time - 40 hours per week
Salary
The annual salary is based on the Full-Time Equivalent (40 hours per week). Specific weekly hours and salary details will be provided within the advert if the role is part-time.
About the Role
The Senior Retail General Manager will lead Southbank Centre’s retail business across three on-site shops, pop-ups, and the retail e-commerce platform, ensuring a commercially successful, customer-focused, and culturally distinctive retail operation. This role is responsible for developing and delivering the retail strategy, translating the organisation's wider commercial objectives into an ambitious and sustainable retail plan. The post-holder will have significant autonomy in shaping the retail offer, identifying opportunities for growth, and driving continuous improvement. Working in partnership with the Head of Department, the Senior Retail General Manager will agree strategic priorities and investment decisions to ensure ongoing success.
Please note that applications sent via email or third-party agencies will not be considered. Reasonable adjustments can be made to support accessibility during the application process.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic and Commercial Leadership
- Financial Management
- Omnichannel Operational Management
- Buying & Product Development
- Team Leadership and Stakeholder Management
Benefits
Working at one of London’s most popular and exciting sites, the successful candidate will benefit from:
- A minimum 5% pension contribution (increasing up to 9% depending on employee contribution) from day one
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Hybrid working model (4 days office, 1 day home)
- Enhanced sick pay
- Enhanced family leave benefits
- Up to 30% discounts at onsite retail, food and beverage vendors
- Staff ticket offers for Southbank Centre events
- Free entry to Hayward Gallery
- Free or discounted entry with other reciprocal organisations
- Free staff yoga sessions
About Southbank Centre
Southbank Centre is the UK’s largest centre for the arts and a charity proud to bring millions of people together on London’s South Bank. The organisation manages an 11-acre site including the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, and Hayward Gallery. The mission is to make a difference to the lives of artists, audiences, and communities through diverse programming and spaces. Southbank Centre values diverse experience and encourages applicants to share relevant skills from within the arts or other sectors.
Experience
- Multisite retail management, preferably with some experience in the cultural sector
- Commercial sourcing and buying strategy
- Marketing across physical, e-commerce, and digital retail channels
- Financial forecasting and budgeting
- Inspirational people management
About you
- Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills
- Commercially minded with the ability to identify growth opportunities
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
- Customer-focused with a passion for delivering a distinctive retail experience
- Motivated to drive continuous improvement and innovation
Qualifications
Specific qualifications are not detailed; however, relevant retail management experience and a proven track record in leading successful retail operations are essential.


