Store Manager - GO Express in Fort William

At GO Outdoors our purpose is strong and clear: “to inspire and equip everyone for life outdoors”. We believe in the positive benefits of the outdoors—whether it’s a daily dog walk, hiking Ben Nevis, horse riding or cold water therapy—and we provide the best equipment for all outdoor activities, always at the best price guaranteed. Our values aren’t just posters on the wall; they’re lived every day: ‘One Team’ – we are stronger together; ‘Responsibility’ – we take ownership; ‘Passion’ – we believe in what we do; and ‘Integrity’ – we do the right thing. These values help us fulfil our mission to be the nation’s favourite outdoor retailer. If you share our passion and want to make a difference, join our team to be part of something unbeatable.

Role Overview

The Store Manager oversees daily operations, drives sales performance, manages a team of motivated employees, and ensures exceptional customer service to achieve business goals.

Responsibilities

• Run all store operations to meet or exceed sales and KPI targets.
• Set clear sales goals and track performance, evolving processes for continuous store growth.
• Create and maintain colleague schedules to ensure proper coverage and productivity.
• Recruit, train, and continuously develop a positive team culture.
• Build a motivated, high‑performing team to increase store success.
• Analyse sales data and financial reports to make quick, well‑informed decisions, identifying opportunities operationally and commercially.
• Develop and implement strategies to meet and exceed sales targets.
• Use visual merchandising techniques to attract, engage, and motivate customers to purchase.
• Ensure merchandise displays are attractive and align with brand guidelines.
• Deliver the highest level of service in store to achieve a positive Net Promoter Score (NPS).
• Address customer inquiries, feedback, and complaints promptly and professionally.
• Drive customer loyalty programs and promotions to enhance engagement.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor and control store expenses to stay within budget and ensure health & safety compliance.
• Ensure stock accuracy during store audits.
• Ensure all new colleagues complete mandatory training required.
• Ensure employee satisfaction survey results meet or exceed company benchmarks.
• Keep operational costs within the allocated budget.

Skills and Experience

• Previous management experience in a fast‑paced retail/customer‑facing environment.
• Passionate about retail with a good understanding of the latest trends and competitors.
• Strong leadership skills and experience coaching and developing a team.
• Strong communication skills.
• Proven track record of managing and exceeding sales targets and KPIs.
• Experience analysing reports and making commercial decisions.
• Keen eye for detail and commerciality.
• Experience in visual merchandising is advantageous.
• Ability to promote JD Group values to internal and external stakeholders.

Benefits

• Quarterly discretionary bonus schemes.
• Company discount of 30% off a large range of products in-store and online (including JD Sports, Size?, Foot Patrol, Blacks, Millets, GO Outdoors).
• Exclusive deals and discounts via our online benefits platform.
• Access to digital health and well‑being services.
• Health cash plans.
• Wide range of internal development courses for professional growth.
• Access to apprenticeships and accredited qualifications (Earn while you learn – UK only).
• Company Sick Pay scheme.
• Health care cover.
• Discounted gym memberships at JD Gyms.
• Life assurance.
• Colleague networks for sharing experiences and driving positive change.
• Volunteer opportunities and contributions to JD Foundation.
• Employer engagement forums.
• Incremental holiday allowance.

Additional Information

• Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Sales and Business Development
• Industries: Retail

Due to the high volume of applications, it may take time to review them all. If you don’t hear back within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful. Applicants that meet the skills criteria will be contacted for a first‑stage meeting with the talent team. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to interview with the hiring manager.