Sales & Merchandising Manager

Location: Grasmere, Lake District National Park (on-site role)

Hours: 9am – 5.30pm (1 hour for lunch)

Main purpose of the job:

• To maintain and increase sales of products through coordinating various written and visual mediums (face-to-face and digitally).
• To work closely with the Sales and Marketing Director and Procurement Manager to implement and execute sales campaigns to achieve superior customer engagement and transactions and contribute to sustainable growth.
• To plan, develop and implement strategies that deliver all-year round sale of products (including seasonal promotions).
• To creatively and thoughtfully present merchandise to brand guidelines.

Main tasks of the job:

• Sales management through the analysis, interpretation and tracking of sales, customer needs and feedback, market trends, product ranges, online and shop sales, events and to plan accordingly/responsively.
• Create product sales literature – design, produce copy, coordinate and style photography for content.
• Manage all product web listings, including SEO-focused sales copy, product details, action photography, and the creation and monitoring of Meta advertising campaigns.
• Create seasonal sales promotions in conjunction with the Sales and Marketing Director and Stock & Procurement Manager, execute and publish to both web/printed literature and distribute accordingly.
• Write, design, format and publish email newsletters for the sales and marketing department.
• Deal with ‘non-over-the-counter’ sales enquiries, i.e. wedding favours, Rum Butter, large orders, bespoke orders, corporate and special events.
• Manage, care and develop relationships with existing and new corporate customers.
• Develop new markets and execute campaigns for ‘non-over-the-counter’ sales.
• Plan, create and implement sales promotions within our shops.
• Communicate with shop and event staff internally, and with customers externally, through sales boards, literature, and creative displays.
• Maximise customer interest and sales levels by displaying products creatively and appropriately, i.e. seasonal and/or promotional.
• Deliver face-to-face front-of-house staff training and manage retail training manuals.
• Support the Hawkshead shop (once a week or biweekly) and Grasmere shop (occasional support as and when) and undertake barista training.
• Provide support at events across the country as required, including weekends and work outside normal hours.
• Undertake any other duties reasonably requested by the Directors and Senior Leadership to ensure sales and marketing opportunities for the business are explored, executed and maximised for sustainable growth.

Essential skills and experience:

• Attention to detail is paramount.
• Proven track record of working within retail and merchandising (minimum 3 years experience).
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office, IT systems and e-commerce workplace applications.
• Print and publications, copywriting, design guidance and proofing.
• Creative skills in merchandising, styling and photography.
• Highly effective communicator at all levels and through all mediums.
• Personable, presentable and with first-class customer service skills.
• Highly motivated and organised with excellent time management.
• Able to manage and co-ordinate several projects at once.
• Full driving licence.

Desirable skills:

• Qualifications in a sales, marketing or merchandising discipline(s).
• Experience of working within a food, artisan business or heritage brand.
• Social media experience.

Benefits:

• Health policy with the option to add family members. Includes a cash back scheme for health and also everyday essentials and luxuries.
• A day’s pay on your birthday.
• Free car parking in Grasmere if not resident.
• ‘My Cumbria Card’ offering discounts for regional attractions and facilities.
• Staff discount.
• Paid out-of-work courses benefitting the position.
• Free refreshments and as much Grasmere Gingerbread as you can eat.

To note:

• A special confidentiality agreement must be signed as part of the appointment process.
• This on-site position is located with the marketing office in Grasmere and is not offered hybrid or remote.
• UK Driving Licence is required for this role.
• Additional working outside normal office hours may be required to meet the demands of the business.
• Uniform provided and to be worn when required.