Gem-A Shop Manager (Gem-A Instruments)

Gem-A, founded in 1908, is the world’s longest‑established provider of gemstone education, offering internationally recognised Gemmology and Diamond Diplomas that lead to Fellowship (FGA) or Diamond Membership (DGA) of the Association. The organisation brings together a global community of gem professionals and enthusiasts, upholding high educational standards and supporting gemmological research. Alongside its teaching, Gem-A provides professional membership, supplies specialist instruments through Gem-A Instruments, and publishes two respected journals: Gems & Jewellery and The Journal of Gemmology.

This part‑time, on‑site role is based at our London headquarters. As Shop Manager, you will take day‑to‑day responsibility for the Gem-A Instruments shop, ensuring smooth operations and an excellent experience for students, members and trade customers. You will manage stock and ordering, handle enquiries and sales across in‑person, email and online channels, and keep pricing and product information up to date. You will also work closely with colleagues across the organisation so that the shop offer reflects Gem-A’s wider educational and commercial priorities.

This is a contract position for a self‑employed professional. You will be responsible for your own tax, National Insurance and any other statutory obligations. Applicants must already be based in the UK and, where applicable, hold the appropriate right‑to‑work documentation.

• Share knowledge and expertise both face to face with shop customers, and dealing with e-mail, web, and telephone enquiries.
• Keep website and price lists up to date, including photography and instructions.
• Invoice and process payments.
• Promote sales opportunities for students and members.
• Provide regular input to Gem-A publications about equipment and books.
• Generate sales at UK and international shows and conferences (overseas travel may be required).
• Working with the Marketing & Events Manager to promote the business and generate increased sales.
• Organise safe and effective transit for sale items – including customs regulations.
• Deal with customer enquiries and/or complaints effectively.
• Maintain the customer database for future promotions.
• Evaluate and extend suppliers list on database, ensuring all suppliers, manufacturers, and individual contacts are properly recorded.
• Research, evaluate, adapt and/or improve new items of stock – including exploring new manufacturers and suppliers, including at overseas shows.
• Add invoice numbers to daily banking sheet and reconcile payments.
• Organise stock effectively to ensure access and security.
• Provide regular sales and stock reports from the database.
• Keep accurate records of stock to monitor sales and reorder levels.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and you may be asked by your manager to take on additional tasks within your capability and appropriate to your role.

• E = essential (someone could not perform the role satisfactorily without these)
• D = desirable (applicants with these would be preferred)

• GCSE passes (or equivalent) in English or Maths. (E)
• Gem-A Gemmology and/or Diamond Diploma. (D)
• Active Gem-A membership (FGA/DGA). (D)

• Solid established career within the retail industry. (E)
• Experience in the gems and jewellery trade. (E)
• Experience and confidence negotiating with suppliers, manufacturers, customs and excise and couriers. (E)
• Experience with stock management systems. (E)
• Experience with eCommerce/CMS (E) - (WordPress desirable)
• Experienced with CRM systems. (D) - (oomi desirable)

• Thorough competence and familiarity with the instruments used in gem testing, particularly the hand instruments. (E)
• Diligence and attention to detail to supply and source instruments and stone sets for both our clients and for education. (E)
• Meticulous attention to detail for record keeping and customs compliance. (E)
• Strong organisational skills. (E)
• Ability to take initiative and work independently. (E)
• Confident with IT. (E)
• Good standard of written English for emailing customers and suppliers. (E)
• Problem solving skills to address ad hoc issues. (E)

• Able to travel abroad occasionally for conferences and trade shows. (E)
• Confident dealing with suppliers on the phone. (E)
• Positive, problem-solving attitude. (E)
• Willing to keep up to date with new products and technologies in the field. (E)

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary, Fixed term contract

Pay: Up to £130.77 per day

Expected hours: 21 per week