At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team and create unforgettable customer experiences in an outdoor retail environment.
- Company: Cotswold Outdoor is a leading retailer for outdoor enthusiasts, located in scenic Fort William.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to £4,250 annual bonus, 40-60% staff discount, and 33 days' holiday.
- Why this job: Join a values-driven company that champions adventure and offers career growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Previous retail management experience and a passion for the outdoors are essential.
- Other info: This role includes a two-week immersive onboarding experience.
The predicted salary is between 24800 - 31200 £ per year.
Full Time | 40 hours | Salary up to £31,000 PA & Up to £4,250 Annual Bonus
Are you ready to lead a team where the mountains are your neighbours and the outdoors is your lifestyle? Cotswold Outdoor Fort William is looking for a Store Manager who lives and breathes adventure and is passionate about creating an exceptional customer experience in one of Scotland’s most scenic and active outdoor destinations.
About the Store
Our Fort William store sits proudly at the far west end of the High Street, a hub for hillwalkers, ultra-marathoners, climbers, and explorers alike. Customers trust us not just for top outdoor kit, but for advice from people who share their passion. Our team offers expert services, including:
- 3D Footscan and Outdoor Footwear Fitting
- Rucksack Fitting and Footwear Protection
- Adventure and Camping Kit Lists
- Electronics and GPS Advice
- Talks and kit support for expeditions and clubs
We even carry a capsule collection from Arc’teryx and provide full DDA accessibility.
What You’ll Do
- Lead and develop a team of outdoor-loving experts
- Deliver outstanding customer experiences that go beyond transactions
- Champion visual merchandising and seasonal campaigns
- Manage key operations: stock, audits, banking, performance metrics
- Bring energy, commercial drive, and a hands-on leadership approach
What You’ll Bring
- Previous experience managing a retail store (outdoor, footwear, or apparel preferred)
- Passion for the outdoors and understanding of technical gear
- Strong leadership, people development, and customer service skills
- Ambition to grow with a values-driven company
Why Join Us?
- Induction & Onboarding – Two-week immersive introduction to our brand
- Annual Bonus – Up to £4,250 based on store performance
- Staff Discount – 40-60% across all our brands
- Development – Ongoing career progression opportunities
- Benefits – 33 days’ holiday (plus option to buy more), private medical, life assurance, critical illness cover & more via Perkbox
This is more than a store, it’s a gateway to adventure. If you’re ready to lead with passion, inspire your team, and connect customers to the gear that fuels their next great escape, apply today. Let’s lead the way into the great outdoors, together.
Store Manager (, , United Kingdom) employer: Cotswold Outdoor Group
Contact Detail:
Cotswold Outdoor Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Store Manager (, , United Kingdom)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Cotswold Outdoor's product range and services. Understanding the technical gear and expert services they offer will help you demonstrate your passion for the outdoors during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed a team in a retail environment. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to inspire and develop others.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the local outdoor community in Fort William. Being knowledgeable about local events, popular hiking trails, and outdoor activities can help you connect with the brand's ethos and show your commitment to the lifestyle.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would enhance customer experiences in-store. Think of innovative ideas for visual merchandising or seasonal campaigns that align with Cotswold Outdoor's values and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Store Manager (, , United Kingdom)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in retail management, particularly in outdoor, footwear, or apparel sectors. Emphasise your leadership skills and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver outstanding customer experiences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for the outdoors and your understanding of technical gear. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you can lead a team and enhance customer satisfaction.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, describe your leadership approach and how you develop team members. Highlight any previous successes in managing teams and driving performance metrics, as these are key aspects of the Store Manager role.
Research Cotswold Outdoor: Familiarise yourself with Cotswold Outdoor's values, products, and services. Mention in your application how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of providing exceptional customer experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cotswold Outdoor Group
✨Show Your Passion for the Outdoors
Make sure to express your love for outdoor activities during the interview. Share personal experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for adventure and how it relates to the role of Store Manager.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Discuss your approach to developing team members and creating a positive work environment, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Understand the Product Range
Familiarise yourself with the products offered by Cotswold Outdoor, especially technical gear. Being knowledgeable about the merchandise will help you connect with customers and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Prepare for Customer Experience Scenarios
Think of scenarios where you delivered exceptional customer service. Be ready to discuss how you would handle various situations, ensuring that you can provide an outstanding experience for every customer.