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- Tasks: Lead a team, manage volunteers, and create a welcoming shopping experience.
- Company: Join Blue Cross, a charity dedicated to helping pets in need.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holiday, wellbeing support, and discounts on pet insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference for animals while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Retail experience, team leadership, and great customer service skills required.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for personal development and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 8958 - 22394 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 11 December 2025
Department: Fundraising, Comms & Engagement
Employment Type: Permanent
Location: Hythe
Reporting To: Shop Manager
Compensation: GBP 8,958 / year
Description: Contract: Permanent, part time (14 hours over 2 days)
Salary: GBP 8,958 per annum pro rata (GBP 22,394 FTE)
Location: Hythe, Southampton
Closing date: 11th December 2025
Charity shops are the in-place to shop and in 2025 and by joining our team in the heart of the Waterside, you will be a part of establishing this shop within the local community and keeping people and their pets at the heart of everything that we do. This store needs someone who knows the community and can help build on our loyal customer base, continuing to nurture strong relationships with our generous local donors. Every item sold directly supports our vital work: caring for sick, injured, and homeless pets, and helping over 40,000 animals each year through our rehoming, veterinary, and education programmes.
As part of our leadership team, you’ll be a positive role model, guiding and motivating our volunteers to create a warm, welcoming shopping experience. Drawing on your people‑management skills, you’ll contribute to recruiting and training new volunteers, share your merchandising know‑how, and deliver outstanding customer service to both shoppers and donors. Whether you’re currently a team leader or supervisor ready for the next step, or an experienced manager seeking a fresh and rewarding challenge, we’d love to hear from you.
About you
- Previous experience of working in a retail environment
- Cash handling and reconciliation experience
- Experience of leading a team
- Experience of providing great customer experience
- Computer and administration skills
It would also be great if you had:
- Managing volunteers
How to apply
Click the apply button below and complete the online application process before the closing date. 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:
- Full time equivalent of 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)
- 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
- Health cash plan
- Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme
- Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution
- Professional fees paid with Continuing Professional Development and personal development support
- Life assurance
- 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance
- Enhanced family friendly policies
- Recognition scheme
- Annual volunteer days
- 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.
Assistant Shop Manager - Hythe employer: Blue Cross
Contact Detail:
Blue Cross Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Shop Manager - Hythe
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the community! As an Assistant Shop Manager, you'll be at the heart of it all. Spend some time chatting with locals and understanding their needs; this will help you build strong relationships with customers and donors.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your leadership skills! When you're in the shop, take the lead with your volunteers. Be a positive role model and motivate them to create a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers. Your energy can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget about customer service! Make sure every shopper feels valued and appreciated. A friendly smile and a helpful attitude can turn a casual visitor into a loyal customer, which is key for our charity's success.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our mission to help pets in need.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Shop Manager - Hythe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who we are at StudySmarter. Tailor your application to reflect our values and mission, showing how you can contribute to our community-focused goals.
Be Yourself: We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Share your experiences and what makes you passionate about working with us.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to showcase any previous retail or team leadership experience you have. We’re looking for someone who can motivate others and create a welcoming environment, so give us examples of how you've done this before.
Apply Through Our Website: When you're ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Cross
✨Know Your Community
Before the interview, take some time to research Hythe and its local community. Understanding the area will help you connect with the shop's mission and show that you're genuinely interested in building relationships with customers and donors.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in leading a team. Think of specific examples where you've motivated volunteers or staff, and how you’ve contributed to creating a positive shopping experience. This will demonstrate your capability as a future Assistant Shop Manager.
✨Highlight Customer Service Experience
Since providing great customer experience is key for this role, come armed with stories that showcase your ability to handle customer queries and complaints effectively. This will illustrate your commitment to excellent service and your understanding of its importance in a retail environment.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the shop's goals, volunteer management, and community engagement. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this role aligns with your values and career aspirations.
