At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the Coop Store on Canterbury Campus, overseeing daily operations and staff.
- Company: Join Kent Students' Union, a vibrant community-focused organization supporting students and staff.
- Benefits: Enjoy 34 days of annual leave and flexible working hours with a mix of shifts.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, enhance your leadership skills, and contribute to student life.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just bring your passion for customer service and teamwork.
- Other info: Guaranteed interview scheme for diverse candidates; apply by 31/01/2025.
The predicted salary is between 16400 - 19000 £ per year.
Retail Duty Manager (Twlights)
£27,396 Grade 6.3
35 hours per week
34 days’ annual leave (full-time equivalent).
We are seeking someone who will be responsible for effectively managing our main Coop Store (named Coop Union Plaza) on Canterbury Campus, having oversight over all operational areas of the store. The store is open 7 days a week, usually from 7am until midnight, providing everyday essentials you would find in any Coop store, primarily to students and university staff, but also to the wider community. We run two Coop stores on Canterbury campus as ‘franchise’ stores – this means we work in partnership with the Cooperative Group, using their brand, goods, and systems, but all of our staff are employed by Kent Students’ Union Trading Ltd, and all profits go back into Kent Students’ Union. The service and offer to the customer, however, is the same as in any other Coop store, so our goods and services are recognisable, as Coop are the leading convenience retailer in the UK.
The successful candidate will be responsible for driving consistency in all aspects of operations and will be tasked with working a combination of daytime, evening and weekend shifts. You would be responsible for the day-to-day management of the store and execution of Coop store processes and routines, ensuring we drive sales through great availability, customer service and store standards, as well as delivering excellent profitability through effective control of costs. You would be responsible for staff development and management, managing a team primarily comprised of student staff, and some career staff. You would also be responsible for ensuring that our stores remain safe and secure for all customers and staff.
The post holder’s principal place of work will be the Coop Union Plaza, however from time to time, may be required to work in the Coop Park Wood, our other store on campus.
Proposed Working Pattern: 5 nights out of 7 during term time, 6pm – 2am; 3pm – 11pm in non term time, Monday to Friday only.
Kent Students’ Union is an organisation that champions equity and diversity and we have recently introduced a REMP guaranteed interview scheme, full details of which can be found in the Recruitment Pack.
To apply please download and complete an application form (or send a CV with a cover letter), along with the Diversity Monitoring Form to kentunionrecruitment@kent.ac.uk.
Closing date 31/01/2025 17:00
Interview date 10/02/2025
Kent Students\' Union | Retail Duty Manager (Twilights) employer: Kent Students' Union
Contact Detail:
Kent Students' Union Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Kent Students\' Union | Retail Duty Manager (Twilights)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Coop brand and its values. Understanding their commitment to customer service and community engagement will help you align your management style with their expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in retail management, especially in environments that require a focus on customer service and team leadership. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've driven sales and improved store operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to manage a diverse team, particularly student staff. Think about strategies you've used in the past to motivate and develop team members, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your flexibility with working hours, as the role requires a mix of evening and weekend shifts. Showing that you're adaptable and willing to meet the needs of the business will make you a strong candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Kent Students\' Union | Retail Duty Manager (Twilights)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Retail Duty Manager position. Understand the responsibilities, working hours, and the importance of customer service and operational consistency.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in retail management, staff development, and customer service. Emphasize any previous roles where you managed teams or worked in a fast-paced environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for retail and your understanding of the Coop brand. Mention specific examples of how you have driven sales and improved store operations in past roles.
Complete the Application Form: If you choose to use the application form, ensure all sections are filled out accurately. Pay attention to the Diversity Monitoring Form as well, as it is part of the application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Students' Union
✨Understand the Coop Brand
Familiarize yourself with the Coop brand and its values. Since you'll be managing a Coop store, knowing their mission and how they operate will help you align your management style with their expectations.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, especially in a retail environment. Highlight your experience in staff development and how you can motivate a primarily student workforce.
✨Emphasize Customer Service
Be ready to discuss your approach to customer service. Since the store serves students and the wider community, demonstrating your commitment to providing excellent service will be crucial.
✨Discuss Operational Efficiency
Think about ways you can drive sales and manage costs effectively. Be prepared to share ideas on maintaining store standards and ensuring product availability, as these are key responsibilities of the role.