Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team, ensure exceptional customer service, and manage daily operations.
- Company: Join Roadchef, a proud franchisee of WHSmith, known for quality and a vibrant work culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 70% employee discount, pension scheme, free meals, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Recognised as a top employer, we value diversity and strive for an equitable workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team with growth opportunities in a top-rated workplace.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in retail management, strong leadership, customer focus, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Our Site Director, Matt at Watford Gap Services on the M1 near Daventry is seeking a passionate and experienced Assistant Manager to support our team to deliver outstanding customer service and operational excellence. As an Assistant Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring smooth daily operations, driving sales, and fostering a positive and productive work environment in WHSmith and have accountability for our Gaming area.
Roadchef Motorway Services is a proud franchisee of WHSmith, one of the world's most iconic and most loved retail brands. With a rich heritage, vibrant store environment, and commitment to exceptional quality, we provide a welcoming atmosphere for our customers and a supportive, dynamic workplace for our team members.
What we offer:
- Competitive Salary: Attractive compensation package with performance-based incentives.
- Benefits: Employee discount up to 70%, contributory pension after 3 months, 1 meal while on duty, employee assistance program, free parking, friends and family scheme.
- Growth Opportunities: Career development and advancement opportunities within the company.
- Training: Comprehensive training programs to support your professional growth.
Your key responsibilities:
- Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team, fostering a collaborative and motivated environment.
- Customer Service: Ensure every customer receives exceptional service, creating memorable coffee experiences.
- Operational Excellence: Oversee daily operations, including stock management, scheduling, and compliance with company standards and health and safety regulations.
- Sales and Marketing: Support with strategies to drive sales and increase store profitability.
- Financial Management: Manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and report on key metrics.
- Brand Ambassador: Uphold WHSmith's brand values and ensure the store represents our commitment to quality and excellence.
Experience:
- Minimum of 2 years in a supervisory or management role within the retail or hospitality industry, preferably in a shop/store environment.
- Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead, inspire, and develop a team.
- Customer Focus: Strong commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
- Operational Knowledge: Proficient in managing day-to-day operations, including stock, scheduling, and financial reporting.
- Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Problem-Solving: Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities.
- Flexibility: Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
Who are we? We are the UK's 3rd largest Motorway Service Area provider with some of the UK's largest and best restaurants and retail brands. We are so proud to be the only Motorway Service Area to hold the Platinum Investor in People accreditation and have been recognised as one of the top 5 Largest Companies to work for 2024 and top 5 in Leisure & Hospitality sector 2024. Our approach is simple: it's about embracing everyone. From cultivating a culture where all employees can bring their best selves to work to deploying diversity and initiatives that support all, we are doing what it takes to build a more equitable workplace.
Contact Detail:
leisurejobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Watford Gap - Assistant Manager - Retail
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with WHSmith's brand values and customer service standards. Understanding their commitment to quality will help you align your approach during interviews and demonstrate that you're a perfect fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership experience by preparing specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any initiatives you've led that improved team performance or customer satisfaction.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the latest trends in retail and hospitality, especially those relevant to motorway services. Being knowledgeable about industry developments can set you apart and show your passion for the sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during your interview. Inquiring about team dynamics, growth opportunities, and operational challenges shows your genuine interest in the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Watford Gap - Assistant Manager - Retail
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in retail or hospitality management. Emphasise your leadership skills, customer service achievements, and any operational knowledge that aligns with the responsibilities of the Assistant Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for customer service and your ability to lead a team. Mention specific examples from your previous roles that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and operational excellence.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, clearly outline your supervisory or management experience, particularly in a retail environment. Include details about how you have driven sales and improved customer experiences in past positions.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects your interpersonal skills. Use clear and concise language, and consider including examples of how you've effectively communicated with teams and customers in the past.
How to prepare for a job interview at leisurejobs
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed a team, resolved conflicts, or motivated staff to achieve their best.
✨Emphasise Customer Service Excellence
Customer service is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you have gone above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction in previous positions. Share specific instances where you created memorable experiences for customers.
✨Know the Brand Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with WHSmith's values and what makes it a beloved brand. During the interview, express your understanding of their commitment to quality and how you can contribute to upholding these standards in the store.
✨Prepare for Operational Questions
Expect questions about managing daily operations, stock management, and financial performance. Brush up on your knowledge of retail operations and be prepared to discuss how you would handle various scenarios that may arise in the role.