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- Tasks: Lead a thriving retail estate with 32 shops and a dedicated team of volunteers.
- Company: Join Pilgrims Hospices, an award-winning employer making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, full-time hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving sales and supporting a compassionate cause.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and positive team.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 59000 ÂŁ per year.
Pilgrims Hospices is seeking an inspiring Head of Retail to lead our thriving retail estate – 32 shops across East Kent. Our Retail Team is positive, hard-working and deeply committed; together they have doubled turnover from £3 million in 2016 to a budgeted £6+ million in 2026/27. We are incredibly proud to have the support of 700 volunteers, who work with us every day and who bring skills, energy and laughter to wherever they work. You’ll be supported by experienced Area Managers, Warehouse & Logistics and Maintenance Teams, working across furniture, book, vintage, discount, retro and general shops—plus the country’s first charity “Brand New with Tags” store. This is a permanent, full time (35h per week) role working Monday – Friday with some weekends. £50,000 to £56,180 per annum depending on experience. This role is expected to start beginning of April.
Main Responsibilities
- Working with the Retail Area Managers and the Warehouse & Logistics Manager, the post holder will lead on the development and achievement of an annual revenue and sales plan for each shop.
- Develop and implement corrective action plans to reinvigorate sales if any of the shops are underperforming.
- Monitor the retail market place to identify new retail trends and opportunities.
- Use benchmarking tools to track Pilgrims Retail against other hospices and charity shops.
- Produce management information showing weekly, monthly and annual sales trends.
- Be responsible for all financial processes ensuring that they comply with the Pilgrims financial policies and procedures.
- Work with the Retail Management Team, ensuring that Retail Shop Managers develop and establish relationships with volunteers so that they feel fully engaged, communicated with and part of the Pilgrims Team.
- Work with the Volunteer Coordinator to develop and implement a rolling retail volunteer resourcing plan.
- Develop agreed recruitment processes and minimum training requirements for volunteers.
- Ensure that the structure and fabric of our shops are maintained to a high standard and that repairs and essential maintenance is undertaken in a planned and timely manner.
- Ensure that our shops meet standards required by Health & Safety legislation, trading standards, fire and building regulations.
- Lead negotiations for new leases and renewals, agreeing Heads of Terms with Landlords before presenting to Solicitors.
- Work closely with our energy brokers, vehicle lease companies, EPOS provider, and preferred contractors to ensure the retail operation is supported as much as possible, and that costs are minimised wherever possible.
- Work with the Retail Management Team to ensure that there is a consistent shopping experience across all our shops.
- Lead on HMRC Gift Aid Claims, ensuring that Retail Data is accurate before any claims are made from HMRC.
- Ensure that all retail staff are kept informed of the retail strategy, operational objectives, the work of the hospice and their own individual shop plans via team meetings as well as an annual Team Away Day.
For more information regarding roles and responsibilities please look at our Job Description and Job Pack available on our website.
About us
As an award-winning employer, Pilgrims provides end-of-life care services to patients and their families across east Kent. Our commitment is to provide open, compassionate care and expertise for patients and their families – both in the community and in-patient units.
Head of Retail employer: Pilgrims Hospices in east Kent
Contact Detail:
Pilgrims Hospices in east Kent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Retail
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the retail sector, especially those who work in charity shops or similar roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for retail! When you get an interview, make sure to share your enthusiasm for the industry and how you can contribute to Pilgrims Hospices' mission. Let them see your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think about how you would handle various challenges in retail management, like boosting sales in underperforming shops. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Pilgrims team and contributing to our amazing work.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Retail
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for retail and charity work shine through. We want to see how your values align with ours at Pilgrims Hospices, so don’t hold back on sharing why this role excites you!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Retail position. Highlight relevant experience, especially in leading teams and driving sales. We love seeing how your past roles have prepared you for this exciting opportunity!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the position there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pilgrims Hospices in east Kent
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Retail, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of financial processes and sales trends. Brush up on key metrics like turnover growth and how you've previously reinvigorated underperforming sales. Be ready to discuss specific examples that showcase your ability to drive revenue.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role involves leading a diverse team, including volunteers. Think about your leadership style and how you engage with your team. Prepare to share stories about how you've built relationships and motivated staff in previous roles, especially in retail or charity settings.
✨Stay Ahead of Retail Trends
Pilgrims Hospices is looking for someone who can identify new retail trends. Research current trends in the charity retail sector and be prepared to discuss how you would implement these insights in their shops. Showing that you're proactive about market changes will impress the interviewers.
✨Understand the Mission
Familiarise yourself with Pilgrims Hospices' mission and values. During the interview, connect your personal values and professional experience to their commitment to compassionate care. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their important work.
