Department Manager in Birmingham

Context and Purpose of the Role
The Department Manager is responsible for the operational management of the Emporio Armani department, the Sales Team, and all activities related to the maximization of performances, both in sales and processes. This role demands a strong combination of technical expertise and soft skills, along with a strong inclination toward teamwork. The Department Manager serves as a point of reference for Sales Associates, conveying energy, passion, and a strong drive to achieve outstanding results. Their goal is to act as a bridge between Selfridges and our head office team and impart professional skills and contents to assure exceptional client service and the achievement of the assigned objectives. The Department Manager must be able to develop strong relationships with colleagues, maintaining constant communication with the Visual Merchandising, Wholesale and Selfridges management team to optimize the management of the sales floor.

Responsibilities

• Sales & Business Management
  • Develop action plans to increase sales and profitability within the department.
  • Analyse performance against departmental targets and guide the sales team towards achieving their goals.
  • Represent themselves as a point of reference for the Team, providing excellent client service and promoting an approach aimed at retaining customers and creating long-lasting relationships with them.
  • Share with the Wholesale and Selfridges Buying team figures on sales performance, products requiring replenishment, and customer feedback regarding the collection.
  • Responsible for creation and submission of weekly trade report to Selfridges management and Head Office Wholesale team.
  • Oversee daily activities, including opening and closing procedures, as well as cash management in line with Selfridges procedures.
• Team Development and Management
  • Support in the implementation of onboarding and training programs for new hires and conduct one-to-one meetings to support Team growth and engagement.
  • Organize training activities for the Team to improve product knowledge, client service, CRM, VM, sales techniques and stock management.
  • Attend daily Selfridges briefings and cascade information on trade, incentives and trainings to the Team.
  • Manage staff-related inefficiencies in a timely and professional manner.
  • Ownership of rota planning and submission to Selfridges management and Head Office Wholesale department for the Emporio team by promptly scheduling lunch breaks, coverage, training activities, etc., while always ensuring adequate sales floor coverage and the smooth execution of store operations.
  • Provide strong synergy with other Departments, ensuring that the customer experience remains the primary focus across brands.
• Operations
  • Involvement in stock-related activities, such as delivery processing, inventory control and stock take.
  • Follow Company policies and procedures and ensure they are correctly applied.
  • Ensure a timely and efficient product replenishment on the sales floor.
  • Organise administrative activities and oversee cash procedures and compliance to regulations.
  • Handle cash register operations when required.

Requirements

• MUST HAVE SKILLS:
  • Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse team.
  • Strong sales and customer service orientation, with the ability to build and maintain customer relationships.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong organisational and time management abilities with attention to detail.
• EXPERIENCE:
  • Previous retail management experience, preferably a Department Manager or similar role.
  • Knowledge of visual merchandising standards and inventory management.
  • Ability to analyse data and make data-driven decisions.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus opportunities.
• Generous employee discount on all Giorgio Armani products.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - providing discounted access to medical and mental health support services.
• Exciting career development opportunities within a global luxury fashion brand.
• Vibrant and inclusive work environment that fosters creativity and personal growth.

As an equal opportunities employer, Giorgio Armani is committed to treating all current and prospective employees equally. We do not condone discrimination based on age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from various backgrounds to apply and join the Giorgio Armani family.