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- Tasks: Manage the Gem-A Instruments shop and ensure a fantastic experience for customers.
- Company: Join the world's longest-established provider of gemstone education.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and a chance to work in a unique field.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community and share your passion for gems and jewellery.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English or Maths; gemmology knowledge is a plus.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 1000 - 1500 £ per month.
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.
Key Responsibilities- 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).
- Work 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.
- Qualifications
- GCSE passes (or equivalent) in English or Maths. (E)
- Gem-A Gemmology and/or Diamond Diploma. (D)
- Active Gem-A membership (FGA/DGA). (D)
- Experience
- 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)
- Skills
- 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)
- Personal attributes
- 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
Gem-A Shop Manager (Gem-A Instruments) in London employer: Gem-A
Contact Detail:
Gem-A Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Gem-A Shop Manager (Gem-A Instruments) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend gem shows, trade fairs, and local events to meet industry folks. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that Shop Manager gig at Gem-A.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When chatting with potential employers or during interviews, share your knowledge about gemmology and the retail industry. We want them to see how passionate and knowledgeable we are!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you spot any opportunities for Gem-A Instruments, don’t hesitate to pitch your ideas. Whether it’s new stock or marketing strategies, showing initiative can really set us apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the time to engage with our brand directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Gem-A Shop Manager (Gem-A Instruments) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gemmology: When writing your application, let your love for gemmology shine through! Share any relevant experiences or knowledge you have about gemstones and the industry. We want to see that you're not just looking for a job, but that you're genuinely excited about being part of the Gem-A community.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your retail experience and any specific skills related to stock management and customer service. We appreciate when applicants take the time to align their experiences with what we’re looking for at Gem-A.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We value good communication skills, so make sure your written English is up to scratch!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Gem-A!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gem-A
✨Know Your Gems
Make sure you brush up on your gemmology knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the instruments used in gem testing and be ready to discuss your experience in the gems and jewellery trade. This will show that you're not just passionate about the role, but also knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Retail Experience
Prepare examples from your previous retail roles that highlight your stock management skills and customer service excellence. Be ready to discuss how you've handled enquiries and complaints effectively, as this is crucial for the Shop Manager position.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Since you'll be managing stock and ensuring smooth operations, come prepared with specific instances where your strong organisational skills made a difference. Discuss how you keep accurate records and manage inventory efficiently.
✨Be Ready to Talk Sales
Think about ways you've promoted sales opportunities in the past. Whether it was through in-person interactions or online channels, be ready to share your strategies for generating sales and how you can apply them at Gem-A Instruments.
