Head of Print Sales, The Observer

What’s the job?

Head of Print Sales. Full-time, Monday - Friday.

Where do I work?

The Observer newsroom, London (22 Berners Street) plus some flexibility to work remotely 1 day per week.

What are we for?

The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts, and a commercial model to ensure that it thrives.

What’s my personal contribution?

As the Head of Print Sales, you are responsible for driving the sales performance of The Observer’s print edition. You will develop and execute a focused strategy to maximize circulation and ensure our newspaper reaches as many readers as possible. With an obsession for print sales, you will work closely with retailers, commercial partners and the third party supplier overseeing printing and distribution. Your role is to create and implement impactful retail promotions and activations that boost sales, ensuring The Observer remains a must-buy publication every Sunday.

What are my responsibilities & accountabilities?

Sales Strategy & Growth

• Develop and execute a print sales strategy that drives circulation growth and maximises revenue.
• Identify new opportunities to expand The Observer’s presence in retail stores and alternative distribution points.
• Analyse sales performance data to adjust tactics and optimise results.

Retail & Distribution Management

• Build strong relationships with key retailers to enhance visibility and positioning in stores.
• Work closely with a retail agency to drive in-store promotions and activations.
• Collaborate with the third-party print and distribution partner to ensure efficient supply and availability.
• Oversee in-store execution to ensure agreed promotional strategies are implemented effectively.

Promotions & Activations

• Develop creative and impactful retail promotions such as sampling, vouchers, and bundled offers to increase sales.
• Plan and execute marketing campaigns that drive footfall and encourage newspaper purchases.
• Monitor the success of promotions and adjust strategies to improve effectiveness.

Operational & Financial Performance

• Manage sales targets and circulation budgets
• Provide regular reports and insights to senior management on print sales trends and opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices in newspaper distribution and sales.

What do I show? Essential skills & behaviours

Skills

• Proven experience in print sales, retail sales and newspaper circulation.
• Strong understanding of retail partnerships, promotions, and distribution strategies.
• Excellent relationship management skills, with experience working with retailers and agencies.
• Ability to analyse sales data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills.

Behaviours

• Sales-Obsessed – Passionate about increasing print circulation and finding new ways to drive sales.
• Commercially Driven – Always looking for opportunities to maximise revenue and market share.
• Proactive & Strategic – Takes initiative and develops forward-thinking strategies for long-term success.
• Detail-Oriented – Ensures flawless execution of promotions and retail activations.
• Collaborative – Works effectively with internal and external stakeholders to achieve common goals.
• Resilient & Adaptable – Thrives in a fast-paced and evolving print media landscape.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary & bonus scheme
• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private Healthcare
• Group Income Protection
• Group Life Assurance
• Pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Interest-free season ticket loans
• Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom

Working with us

We are a progressive business with a diverse, motivated team; a mix of veterans and young people starting out on their careers. We are committed to equal opportunities and creating an inclusive environment for all our employees, and we welcome applicants regardless of ethnic origin, national origin, gender, race, colour, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age.

To apply please send a letter and a PDF of your CV to jobs@observer.co.uk. You should include the name of the job that you are applying for in the email subject. Deadline to apply: 9 July