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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support our shop team with customer service and stock management in a vibrant retail environment.
- Company: Join Blue Cross, a charity dedicated to caring for over 40,000 animals each year.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive pay, wellbeing support, and discounts at various retailers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while working in a fun, supportive atmosphere.
- Qualifications: Previous retail experience and strong customer service skills are essential.
- Other info: This is a zero-hours contract, offering flexibility based on shop needs.
Retail Cover Supervisor (Zero Hours) – Hythe
Application Deadline: 2 November 2025
Department: Fundraising, Comms & Engagement
Employment Type: Zero Hours
Location: Hythe
Reporting To: Shop Manager
Compensation: £13.69 / hour
Description
Contract: Zero Hours Contract (shops open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm)
Salary: £13.69 p/hour
Location: Hythe, Southampton
Closing date: Sunday 2nd November 2025
Interview date: Interviews will be arranged as applications are received
Charity shops are the places to shop in 2025. By joining us, you won’t just be joining a shop — you’ll be joining a mission where every day, your work helps animals live happier, healthier lives. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by friendly faces, wagging tails and the occasional bargain that’s just too good to resist.
More about the role
Our charity shops are vibrant community hubs — loved by our brilliant customers, powered by generous donations, and buzzing with energy. Every sale helps us care for over 40,000 animals each year through our rehoming, veterinary, and education programmes.
As our Standby Shop Assistant, you’ll be the hero who steps in when needed to keep things running smoothly. One day you might be helping customers find their next treasure, the next you’ll be organising stock or supporting our volunteers.
This is a zero-hours, which means your hours will vary based on the shop’s needs. We are committed to paying the Real Living Wage, which is currently £12 per hour. For this role, the total hourly rate is £13.45, including additional elements like holiday pay.
About you
We are looking for someone who:
- Has previous experience working in a retail environment.
- Are confident in cash handling and reconciliation.
- Has experience leading a team, providing supervision and taking the lead.
- Loves chatting with customers and creating a welcoming shop atmosphere.
- Are comfortable with computers and basic admin.
It would also be great if you have experience:
- Managing volunteers.
How to apply Click the apply button below and complete the online application process before the closing date. Applications will be reviewed as we receive them and interviews arranged accordingly. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response.
Blue Cross benefits
Our people are the most important part of delivering our purpose. If it were not for their amazing efforts and commitment, we would not be able to make the difference that we do today.
In return, Blue Cross wants to ensure we provide you with the best working environment we can. We want you to be happy working for us and will do everything we can to make sure you are.
Our generous benefits package includes:
- Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support
- Free access to GP via MetLife- 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family
- Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution
- Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers
To read more about the benefits Blue Cross has to offer, please visit the why work for us page on our website.
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Retail Cover Supervisor (Zero Hours) - Hythe employer: Blue Cross For Pets
Contact Detail:
Blue Cross For Pets Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Cover Supervisor (Zero Hours) - Hythe
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local community in Hythe. Understanding the demographics and preferences of the customers can help you connect better during your interactions, showcasing your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your previous retail experience during any informal conversations or networking opportunities. Sharing specific examples of how you've handled customer service or stock management can make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for animal welfare and community engagement. Being passionate about the charity's mission can resonate well with the hiring team and show that you're a great fit for their culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your supervisory experience and how you've managed teams or volunteers in the past. This will show that you have the leadership skills necessary for the Standby Shop Assistant role.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Cover Supervisor (Zero Hours) - Hythe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Retail Cover Supervisor position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in retail and customer service.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous retail or supervisory experience. Mention specific examples where you successfully managed cash handling, customer interactions, or worked with volunteers.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working in a charity environment. Explain why you want to join the team in Hythe and how your skills align with their mission of caring for animals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, make sure to proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Cross For Pets
✨Show Your Retail Experience
Make sure to highlight your previous retail experience during the interview. Discuss specific roles you've held, your responsibilities, and how you contributed to the success of the team. This will demonstrate your understanding of the retail environment and your ability to thrive in it.
✨Emphasise Customer Service Skills
Since this role involves a lot of customer interaction, be prepared to share examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. Talk about any challenges you faced and how you resolved them, showcasing your problem-solving skills and dedication to customer satisfaction.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Leadership
As a Retail Cover Supervisor, you'll need to work well with others and possibly lead a team. Share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with colleagues or managed volunteers. Highlight your ability to motivate others and maintain a positive working environment.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful questions about the shop's operations, team dynamics, or community engagement initiatives. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
