At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Retail Manager, drive sales, and provide top-notch customer service.
- Company: Join Marie Curie, the UK's leading end-of-life charity with a community focus.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension scheme, and continuous professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable retail experience.
- Qualifications: Previous retail experience and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Part-time role with excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
Company Description
Marie Curie is the UK’s leading end‑of‑life charity and the largest non‑NHS provider of end‑of‑life care across all four nations. We deliver community nursing and hospice care and run retail stores that generate revenue, build awareness and engage local communities.
Job Description
As an Assistant Retail Manager, you will support the Retail Manager and encourage sales, provide excellent customer service, and uphold the highest standards of stock presentation and store cleanliness. Assist the Retail Manager in maximizing sales by maintaining high standards of display and layout, ensuring proper stock rotation, and securing realistic pricing on donated items. Keep merchandising up to date with trends and competition. Maximize Gift Aid income and oversee the proper display and administration of bought‑in goods, ensuring minimal stock loss. Engage customers, coach volunteers and staff on how to spark conversations, encourage add‑donations, and register them to the loyalty scheme. Engage with the community to drive repeat trade, stock donation, volunteer recruitment and community involvement. Recruit and manage volunteers and ensure all staff and volunteers follow Marie Curie procedures and guidelines. In the Retail Manager’s absence, take overall responsibility for the management and operation of the store.
Key Criteria
- Previous retail experience, preferably in fashion/clothing.
- Experience with cash handling and financial management procedures.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a customer‑first attitude.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good organisational skills and ability to prioritise workload.
- Understanding of health and safety procedures in a retail environment.
- Experience in managing and motivating volunteers (desirable).
Application Process
Send a recent CV and a cover letter detailing your experience, how you meet the specification and why you want to work for Marie Curie. In this role you will have sole responsibility for running the store, which involves lone working. Candidates under 18 will not be considered.
Benefits you’ll love
- 25 days annual leave (exclusive of Bank Holidays)
- Marie Curie Group Personal Pension Scheme (matching contribution up to 7.5%)
- Loan schemes for bikes, computers and season tickets
- Continuous professional development opportunities
- Industry‑leading training programmes
- Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programmes
- Enhanced bereavement, family‑friendly and sickness benefits
- Access to Blue Light Card membership
- Subsidised Eye Care
Additional Information
- Vacancy type: Permanent, part‑time
- Location: Portobello Store
- Salary: ÂŁ3,492.06 per annum + benefits
- Hours per week: 5.5
- Closing date: 21st January (applications are considered as received)
For more information or an informal chat please contact jobs@curie.org.
You can view the full job description and our candidate pack here.
Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work. We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. We are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive and rewarding workplace. We are committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences and are a Stonewall champion. We’re happy to accommodate any requests for reasonable adjustments. Please email any requests to access@curie.org.
Sunday Assistant_Portobello employer: Marie Curie UK
Contact Detail:
Marie Curie UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sunday Assistant_Portobello
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Marie Curie. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely cares about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to retail and customer service. Think about specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills in teamwork, sales, and customer engagement. We want to hear your stories!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you’re in the interview, let your passion for retail and helping others shine through. Talk about why you want to work at Marie Curie and how you can contribute to their community-focused mission. A positive attitude goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can make a lasting impression. It shows that you appreciate the opportunity and are still interested in the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a fantastic fit for the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Sunday Assistant_Portobello
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your retail experience, especially in fashion or clothing, and don’t forget to showcase your customer service skills. Tailor it to reflect how you meet the key criteria mentioned in the job description.
Write a Personal Cover Letter: This is your chance to shine! Use your cover letter to explain why you want to work for Marie Curie and how your experiences align with the role. Be genuine and let your passion for the charity's mission come through.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since this role involves working with volunteers and staff, emphasise your ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've motivated others or contributed to a positive team environment in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marie Curie UK
✨Know the Charity Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Marie Curie and its mission. Understand their values and how they impact the community. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with what they stand for.
✨Showcase Your Retail Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous retail experience, especially in fashion or clothing. Prepare specific examples of how you've maximised sales, maintained stock presentation, or engaged customers. This will demonstrate your capability to thrive in their dynamic retail environment.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Leadership Skills
As an Assistant Retail Manager, you'll need to work well with others and potentially lead a team. Share examples of how you've successfully managed or motivated volunteers or staff in the past. Highlight your ability to foster a positive team atmosphere while putting customers first.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, or the store's community engagement strategies. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to their goals.