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- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team to maximise shop performance and manage daily operations.
- Company: Join the UK's largest cat welfare charity, dedicated to improving the lives of cats and their owners.
- Benefits: Enjoy health benefits, 26 days annual leave, and salary finance options for financial wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a fun, vibrant retail environment with unique items.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail management, team leadership, and a passion for achieving sales targets.
- Other info: Fixed term contract with potential for extension; apply early as positions may close before the deadline.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Team: Retail
Location: Crawley
Work pattern: 37.5 hours on a rota basis (to include weekends)
Salary: Up to £25,140.96 per annum
Contract: Fixed term for 6 months, with possibility of extension
We are the UKs largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them. Will you join us and make life better for cats?
Responsibilities of our Shop Manager:
- To lead, manage, coach and develop a shop team of employees and volunteers to be the best they can be, maximising shop performance through the safe day-to-day operational management of shop activity.
- To take ownership for the delivery of shop income, expenditure and operating profit budgets and other key measures of performance and activity as defined in the Retail Performance framework.
- To support the work of Cats Protection, acting as brand ambassador, being a role model for the values and behaviours of the Charity, taking responsibility for shop operations and related people management.
About the retail team:
Our retail operation consists of over 80 charity shops. Each of our shops has its own charm and personality due to our dedicated volunteers and colleagues. From vintage jewellery and jigsaws to harps and handbags, whether our customers are looking for that 'must have' item or simply a 'missing piece'.
What we're looking for in our Shop Manager:
- Demonstrable learning and experience from working in a relevant retail environment.
- Previous experience of line managing a team and building a culture to achieve a collective goal.
- Experience and/or understanding of working to sales targets and budgets.
- Excellent organisational skills including the ability to meet deadlines.
- Strong commercial awareness, balanced with an appreciation for the unique needs of the Charity.
What we can offer you:
- Range of health benefits.
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service.
- Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing and much more.
Interested? Here's how to apply:
Application closing date: 26th May 2025
Virtual interview date: TBC
Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to.
If you're enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferrable. You may be just the right candidate.
If successful, your recruitment journey will include:
- Anonymised application form.
- Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams.
Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes. Please email if you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey.
Shop Manager employer: Cats Protection
Contact Detail:
Cats Protection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Shop Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of Cats Protection. Understanding their commitment to cat welfare will help you align your answers during the interview and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare examples from your previous retail experience that showcase your leadership skills. Think about times when you successfully managed a team or improved shop performance, as these will be key points of discussion.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the local community in Crawley and how Cats Protection fits into it. Being able to discuss local initiatives or partnerships can show your commitment to the role and the charity's impact in the area.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice common interview questions related to retail management and team development. This will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the virtual interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Shop Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in retail management and team leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to meet sales targets and manage budgets, as these are key aspects of the Shop Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for animal welfare and your understanding of the charity sector. Explain how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of the Shop Manager position and why you want to work for Cats Protection.
Highlight Transferable Skills: If your experience doesn't perfectly match the job requirements, focus on transferable skills. Emphasise your organisational abilities, commercial awareness, and any relevant volunteer work that demonstrates your commitment to the charity's values.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are important traits for a Shop Manager.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cats Protection
✨Show Your Passion for Cats
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for animal welfare, particularly cats. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your commitment to making a difference in their lives, as this aligns with the charity's mission.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed and developed a team in previous roles. Highlight your ability to motivate others and create a positive work culture, which is crucial for the Shop Manager position.
✨Understand Retail Performance Metrics
Familiarise yourself with key retail performance indicators such as sales targets and budgets. Be ready to discuss how you have met or exceeded these in past roles, showcasing your commercial awareness and operational management skills.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview about the shop's operations, team dynamics, and the charity's goals. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
