At WHSmith our people are at the heart of everything we do. They are the ones that go the extra mile for our customers. The ones that enable our growth. 

The Commercial Insights Lead will be responsible for transforming complex data into clear, compelling stories for brands and internal teams alike.

You'll embed data-driven thinking across our commercial teams and deliver quality campaign insights and recommendations to our brands.

Successful candidates typically demonstrate strong data analysis capabilities, proficiency in tools such as Excel, SQL, or BI platforms (e.g., Power BI or Tableau), and the ability to translate complex data into clear recommendations for non-technical stakeholders.

What you will be doing: 

• Constantly review the required framework for delivering high quality campaign insights for our suppliers and brands
• Work closely with the planning team to understand the reporting requirements for specific brand campaigns
• Prioritise reporting workload effectively to deliver post campaign reports on time
• Work closely with the Brand Activations Exec on presentation requirements for brands ensuring briefs are shared on time and in full to manage workload
• Constantly review data to support the sales and planning teams plan campaigns to deliver incremental revenue and that deliver a return for suppliers
• Analyse the effectiveness of cycle launches by providing post cycle insights that help the trade planning team deliver future cycle activity that drives incremental revenue
• Continuously monitor the market and consumer behaviours to build insights that support both our media and trade plans
• Work with our brand partners and landlords to build collaborative insights
• Find ways to automate all data by working with internal data and insights teams
• Brief in customer insight projects as required for the commercial buying, media and trade planning teams

What we are looking for:   

• Proven experience in using data systems such as EPOS, Power BI
• Excellent excel skills
• Proven experience in analysing complex data points including pre vs. post vs. control analysis
• Experience in interpreting data to build out findings and recommendations
• High level of analytical experience and excellent commercial acumen
• Experience in working with data in a retail media and/or retail environment
• Excellent organisation skills with the ability to prioritise work and manage ambiguity
• A self-starter with the initiative to drive improvements without prompt
• A team player who can manage but it willing to support colleagues

How we reward our teams: 

• Hybrid Working Model from home and in the office 
• 4pm Friday Finish 
• Flexible Working 
• 25 Days holiday, plus your Birthday off, plus Bank Holidays with an opportunity to buy extra days holiday  
• Family Friendly Leave 
• Company Pension scheme 
• Sharesave Scheme 
• Annual Bonus based on company and personal performance 
• Competitive Salary and Car Allowance 
• Private Medical
• Staff Discount Card for stores and online 

About us: 

Celebrating over 230 years, we’re proud to have grown and evolved into a globally recognised brand present in over 30 countries around the world, and we’re proud to be that air of familiarity people love and trust on their journey, both in life and through life. As a diverse group of over 5,000 colleagues, we are all on the same journey to a better business through our commitments to our planet, people and the communities we serve.  

Our UK Travel office is based in a buzzing part of central London close to Liverpool Street Station. We are an ambitious team that thrives on pace, collaboration and innovation resulting in a real entrepreneurial culture. It’s perfect for people who are happy to use their initiative and embrace life outside their comfort zone.  

At WHSmith, we’re all about creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace where everyone can be themselves and do their best. No matter your background, age, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, race or ethnicity, marital status, religion, sex, sexual orientation or anything else that makes you, you—you’re welcome here. 

We’re also open to flexible working where possible, so if that’s something you need, let’s chat. And if you need any adjustments during the selection process, just let our Talent Acquisition team know—we’re happy to help!