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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect customers and staff while ensuring a safe shopping environment.
- Company: Join OCS, a leading facilities management company with over 50,000 colleagues.
- Benefits: Enjoy career development opportunities and funded qualifications.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in retail security.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid SIA License and strong observational skills.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; we celebrate diversity and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About The Company
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values – Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
About The Role
Days of Working: Flexible Locations | Varied Shifts | SIA Licence Required
Purpose of the Role
As a Retail Area Support Officer, you’ll play a key role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for customers, staff, and stock across multiple retail locations. You’ll act as a visible deterrent to criminal activity, deliver excellent customer service, and respond effectively to incidents. This is a mobile role requiring flexibility to cover different sites, shifts, and operational needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain a strong and visible security presence to deter theft, anti-social behaviour, and other risks.
- Conduct regular patrols across store premises, ensuring safety and vigilance at all times.
- Monitor CCTV and other security systems to identify and respond to suspicious activity.
- Carry out searches in line with company policy and legal guidelines.
- Respond promptly to alarms and incidents, escalating where necessary to management or emergency services.
- Complete accurate and timely incident and observation reports.
- Collaborate with store teams to address security concerns and support loss prevention.
- Provide a professional, approachable presence for customers, staff, and visitors.
- Assist with directions, queries, and general support as needed.
- Calmly and effectively de‑escalate confrontational situations.
- Adhere to all site‑specific procedures, company policies, and legal requirements.
- Support the wider security team and undertake additional duties as directed by the Site Supervisor or Security Manager.
Essential Requirements
- Right to work in the UK.
- Valid SIA Licence – Door Supervisor (DS) or Security Guarding.
- Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
- Proven ability to manage challenging situations professionally.
- Excellent communication skills – both verbal and written.
- A proactive, reliable, and professional approach to safety and service.
- Flexibility to work across multiple locations, including travel between sites.
- Willingness to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
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Retail Area Support Officer employer: Manchester Arndale
Contact Detail:
Manchester Arndale Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Area Support Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific security protocols and procedures relevant to retail environments. Understanding how to effectively deter theft and manage incidents will show your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in customer service, as this role requires excellent interaction with customers. Being able to demonstrate your ability to handle confrontational situations calmly can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Make sure to showcase your SIA License prominently. This is a crucial requirement for the role, and demonstrating that you are fully qualified will give you an edge in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of OCS if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Area Support Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the key responsibilities and essential requirements for the Retail Area Support Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these aspects.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in security roles or customer service. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to handle difficult situations and provide excellent service.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your valid SIA License and any other relevant qualifications. Highlight your strong observational skills and ability to communicate effectively, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only expresses your interest in the position but also explains why you would be a great fit for OCS. Mention your proactive approach to safety and security, and your flexibility to work varied shifts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Arndale
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Retail Area Support Officer. Understand the importance of customer service and security in a retail environment, as well as the specific duties like monitoring CCTV and conducting patrols.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your strong observational skills and ability to handle difficult situations. Be prepared to give examples from past experiences where you successfully managed conflicts or identified suspicious behaviour.
✨Demonstrate Professionalism
Since this role requires a professional approach, practice how you present yourself during the interview. Dress appropriately, maintain good eye contact, and communicate clearly to convey your professionalism.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, training opportunities, and expectations for the role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
