Store Manager in Colchester

Diversity matters. We are building a brand that represents the people of the world. It’s what you do that counts, and we are always looking to expand perspectives and voices to shape our future.

Who we are: You might know us as the inventors of the bath bomb, but there’s more to this great-smelling, partly employee-owned, family-run company than pioneering cosmetics. We believe our business should put more back into the world than it takes and demonstrate that capitalism can be a force for good. The Living Wage Foundation’s statement 'a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay' is one that we are proud to commit to in the UK. As an accredited Living Wage employer, we put our people first and fight cruel practices like animal testing, promote regeneration, and show that it is what’s inside that counts - whether that’s an ingredient in a product, or the minerals in a smartphone.

The role: As a Store Manager, your primary focus will be crafting and delivering unparalleled customer service and experiences. You will wield the autonomy to cultivate a team that shares your passion for creating memorable interactions with our customers, fostering an environment where every visit is not just a transaction but a delightful experience. You’ll also look to build strong connections within your local community, with other businesses and with charity organisations and campaigning groups. Your dedication to outstanding customer service will be the driving force behind the growth of your business, and we are here to empower you in achieving this mission.

You will be responsible for creating and executing "top box" goals for both the store and your team, ensuring that every decision aligns positively impacting these. You will constantly evaluate progress towards these goals, you will shape the team structure to optimise performance. The team structure for your shop is your responsibility to get right. It’s up to you to effectively recruit and upskill all members of your team for the roles that you need. Which roles, what staff, and how many hours you use is down to you.

People are at the heart of our business. We want you to enjoy and challenge yourself, build a career, and teach us what we don’t know, so we’ve created a culture where your job description is a starting point, not an end goal. Our working style is flexible, fluid, supportive, and authentic. We value your drive to push boundaries, try new approaches, and continually enhance the customer experience, and you can count on our full support in these endeavours.

Key information: Contract - Temporary 6-9 months parental leave cover. Contract hours: 32-40 hours. Interview dates: Week beginning 23rd February. Please note: We may close this vacancy early if we receive an overwhelming response or our business requirements change.

What will you be responsible for as a Store Manager?

• Lead and inspire your team to deliver exceptional customer experiences, fostering a welcoming and vibrant shop floor.
• Drive sales growth by analysing key business metrics, setting targets, and maximising sales through events, parties, and outreach initiatives.
• Ensure the shop is well-stocked, visually appealing, and product displays are adjusted to reflect current sales trends and seasonal changes.
• Manage the shop’s financials, controlling staffing, operational costs, and stock levels to maintain a healthy retail margin.
• Recruit, train, and develop a diverse and talented team, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet sales and service goals.
• Foster a positive work environment through effective communication, regular team check-ins, and promoting work-life balance.
• Plan and implement in-store and external events, collaborating with the PR team to enhance the shop's visibility and attract new customers.
• Ensure the shop operates within established Lush guidelines, creating internal processes where necessary to suit your shop's unique needs.
• Promote safety and well-being within the team, ensuring a secure work environment and access to support resources.
• Monitor sales trends and local customer needs, adjusting opening hours and staffing levels to maximise trading opportunities.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise:

• Customer Service: A genuine passion for delivering exceptional customer service, leading by example, and ensuring your team is providing 5-star service.
• Management Skills: Able to navigate difficult conversations, set and manage expectations and support your management team.
• Teamwork: Consistently leading by example on the shop floor, working with your team to achieve your top box goals.
• Communication: Strong verbal communication skills to share business messages throughout the store.

Benefits:

• Holiday allowance
• 50% discount on Lush products and spa treatments
• Discretionary and profit-based bonus
• Pension scheme
• Paid day off for your birthday
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted rail and bus season tickets
• Employee assistance programme
• 6 months of full pay for parental leave (primary caregiver must qualify for SMP)
• Flexible working

We’re 10% Employee Owned - all colleagues play a role in protecting our ethics, our independence, contributing ideas for the future and share in the rewards of success when the company is doing well.

We believe that your information is yours and that it is Lush's responsibility to process your personal information in a secure, fair and accurate manner.