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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to enhance retail presence and drive growth for Devon Air Ambulance.
- Company: Join Devon Air Ambulance, a charity dedicated to saving lives across the county.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension contributions, and access to electric vehicle lease cars.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your career in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in retail, budget management, and a passion for charity work required.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with regular visits to shops across Devon.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 60000 £ per year.
Salary: £53,973.50 per annum
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Location: Hybrid - Exeter/Remote, plus regular attendance at DAA shops across Devon
Duration: Permanent
The Head of Retail will lead a team of 60+ staff and several hundred volunteers to grow and develop our retail presence on the high street and online. With 23 shops already open and plans to reach 30 in the next few years, this crucial role will be responsible for identifying new opportunities for growth, as well as maximising income from our existing shops. The money raised from our shops directly supports our life-saving work in the county, and the Head of Retail will also play a role in contributing to the wider success of the charity.
The Candidate
We’re seeking an experienced and passionate retailer to join us. The ideal candidate will be a proven leader with a background in charity retail. They’ll have an entrepreneurial spirit and a creative eye, but also able to motivate a large and diverse team, as well as working collaboratively with key internal support functions. They’ll have demonstrable experience in budget management and sales analysis, with an ability to draw actionable insights. The ideal candidate will have a sound knowledge and understanding of retail best practice, including health and safety and wider regulatory compliance issues. A good geographical knowledge of Devon is essential. A full UK driving licence is required for this role.
The Package
- 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays (pro rata), rising to 27 days with length of service
- Occupational Maternity/Paternity & Adoption leave
- Paid time off for fertility treatment
- Pension scheme, 6% employer contributions
- Occupational sick pay scheme
- Counselling and financial wellbeing services
- Company car provided
- Access to electric vehicle lease cars through salary sacrifice
Alongside our excellent staff benefits, we will support your ongoing development to build your skills, experience and career.
More Information and How to Apply
To apply, please visit our careers page, scroll down to 'Head of Retail' and click 'Apply for this job'. The closing date for applications is at 9am on Tuesday 27th May 2025. Interviews will be a two stage process and held in person at Head Office, Exeter. 1st interview - Friday 6th June 2025, 2nd interview - Friday 13th June 2025.
Please note, only your application form will be used for shortlisting, so it is worth ensuring everything you want to include is covered in the application form. If you would like to have an informal chat to find out more about the role, please contact us and we will organise a suitable time for you to speak with Matthew Bell, Public Engagement Director, to find out more information.
Due to the nature of this role, offers of employment are subject to a satisfactory basic criminal records check, references, and proof of Right to Work in the UK. Unfortunately, we do not have a license for sponsorship at present.
Disclaimer: Devon Air Ambulance reserve the right to close a vacancy earlier than the advertised date if a high number of applications are received. Once a vacancy has closed, we are unfortunately unable to consider further applications, so please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Head of Retail employer: Devon Air Ambulance
Contact Detail:
Devon Air Ambulance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Retail
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the charity retail sector, especially in Devon. Understanding local trends and customer preferences can give you an edge in interviews, showing your commitment to the role and the community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the charity retail space. Attend local events or connect with current employees at Devon Air Ambulance on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights and potentially get a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed diverse teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to motivate and inspire others.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Devon Air Ambulance's mission and values thoroughly. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs will show your genuine interest in contributing to their cause.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Retail
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Retail position. Highlight your relevant experience in retail management, especially within charity sectors.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job. Emphasise your leadership abilities, budget management experience, and any knowledge of retail best practices.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for retail and the charity sector. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and driven growth in previous roles.
Highlight Local Knowledge: Since a good geographical knowledge of Devon is essential, make sure to mention any connections or familiarity you have with the area in your application. This can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Devon Air Ambulance
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of Retail, you'll be leading a large team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully motivated and managed teams in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Retail Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with retail best practices, especially in charity retail. Be ready to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the sector, as well as how you can apply this knowledge to Devon Air Ambulance.
✨Highlight Your Budget Management Experience
Since budget management is crucial for this role, come prepared with specific examples of how you've managed budgets effectively in previous positions. Discuss any strategies you've used to maximise income and reduce costs.
✨Know the Local Area
A good geographical knowledge of Devon is essential. Research the area and be ready to discuss how your understanding of local demographics can help grow the retail presence of Devon Air Ambulance.
