At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional customer service and ensure a positive travel experience for passengers.
- Company: Join CrossCountry, a dynamic team focused on customer satisfaction.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £26,888, rising to £34,061, plus 30 days holiday and free travel perks.
- Other info: Flexible hours with great career growth opportunities in a diverse environment.
- Why this job: Be the face of CrossCountry and make every journey memorable for our customers.
- Qualifications: Excellent people skills, customer service driven, and a strong work ethic.
The predicted salary is between 26888 - 34061 £ per year.
Are you passionate about delivering exceptional customer service? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, people-focused environment? If so, CrossCountry is looking for enthusiastic Retail Service Managers to join our dynamic team based in Reading.
What you’ll be doing
As a Retail Service Manager, you will be the face of CrossCountry onboard our trains – providing a warm welcome, delivering a high-quality at-seat catering service, and making every journey a positive experience for our customers. From serving refreshments in Standard Class to offering complimentary service in First Class, you will play a key role in ensuring passengers travel in comfort and style.
What’s in it for you?
- Starting salary: £26,888, rising to £34,061 after successful training (based on a 38-hour week)
- Permanent, full-time position with great career prospects
- Comprehensive training and continuous support (Your initial 4-week training course will take place at our Customer Service Training Centre in Derby, where you will be trained on all aspects of the role.)
- Opportunities to grow within a national transport brand.
What We are Looking For
We are not just hiring for a role — we’re hiring the right people. Here’s what success looks like:
- Excellent people skills – confident, approachable, and great at connecting with customers.
- Customer service driven – Maintains a strong focus on customer satisfaction by delivering efficient, and proactive service at all times.
- Strong work ethic – reliable, consistent, and committed to high standards.
- Team player – work seamlessly with onboard crew and local colleagues.
- Flexible – able to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.
- Well-presented – professional appearance that reflects our brand.
- Personality – we want authentic, energetic individuals, not robots!
Location Requirement
You must live within 1 hour’s commute of Reading and be able to travel at unsocial hours reliably.
Why Join CrossCountry?
At CrossCountry, we’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive. We value the unique perspectives that everyone brings and believe this drives our success.
In return our benefits include:
- Holiday allowance of 30 days, rising by one day a year up to a maximum 35 days.
- Pension is defined benefit, so contributions can vary but benefit is fixed and inflated each year.
- Free travel on Arriva Rail services (CrossCountry, Chiltern, London Overground and Grand Central)
- 75% off travel on other UK rail companies
- Discounted European rail travel after one year.
Application Deadline: Monday 15th June 2026
Please note, successful applicants will be required to attend a medical and have a DBS check. Join us and be part of something bigger – making journeys better, one customer at a time.
Retail Service Managers- Reading employer: Arrivatc
CrossCountry is an exceptional employer that prioritises a vibrant work culture and employee development, making it an ideal place for Retail Service Managers in Reading. With a competitive starting salary, comprehensive training, and generous holiday allowances, we foster an environment where team members can thrive and grow within a national transport brand. Join us to be part of a diverse workforce dedicated to delivering outstanding customer service and enhancing every journey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Service Managers- Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research CrossCountry and understand their values and mission. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your people skills! Since this role is all about customer service, try role-playing scenarios with friends or family. This will help you feel more confident when interacting with customers during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress to impress! Make sure you present yourself well, as first impressions matter. Wear something smart and professional that reflects the brand's image.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the CrossCountry team.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Service Managers- Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for customer service shine through in your application. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making every journey a positive experience for our customers.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your people skills and customer service experience. We’re looking for team players who can connect with customers, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant experiences!
Be Authentic:We want to get to know the real you! Use your application to express your personality and what makes you unique. Remember, we’re looking for energetic individuals, not robots!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arrivatc
✨Know the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research CrossCountry. Understand their values, mission, and what makes them unique in the transport industry. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Retail Service Manager, excellent people skills are crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully connected with customers or resolved issues. Be ready to demonstrate your approachability and confidence during the interview.
✨Emphasise Customer Service
Highlight your commitment to customer satisfaction. Think of specific instances where you went above and beyond for a customer. This will align perfectly with what CrossCountry is looking for in a candidate who can deliver proactive service.
✨Dress the Part
First impressions matter! Make sure to dress professionally and present yourself well. This reflects your understanding of the brand's image and shows that you take the opportunity seriously. A polished appearance can set you apart from other candidates.
