At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a new shop, create a welcoming environment, and drive sales for a great cause.
- Company: Join Rowcroft Hospice, a charity making a real difference in South Devon.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive training, and the chance to make an impact.
- Other info: Be part of a caring team with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape a community hub while helping those with life-limiting illnesses.
- Qualifications: Retail experience and a passion for excellent customer service.
The predicted salary is between 13.3 - 13.3 £ per hour.
We are opening a new Rowcroft shop at Kings Ash Way in Paignton, next to Lidl, and we are looking for an enthusiastic and commercially minded Shop Manager to bring it to life. Our shops sit at the heart of their communities. They offer a warm welcome, a great shopping experience and an important way for local people to support Rowcroft. Every sale, donation and conversation helps us raise vital funds for people living with life-limiting illnesses and those closest to them across South Devon.
This is an opportunity to shape a new shop from the outset, build a strong team of volunteers and create a place that customers want to visit again and again.
The role
You will lead the day-to-day running of the shop, combining excellent customer service with confident commercial decision-making. You will create a welcoming and inclusive environment, maintain high standards of presentation and help your team understand the difference their contribution makes. You will:
- Use your retail knowledge and sales information to maximise income and profitability.
- Create attractive, commercially focused displays that reflect Rowcroft’s brand standards.
- Welcome, motivate and support volunteers so they feel confident, included and valued.
- Deliver consistently warm and friendly customer service and act as a positive ambassador for Rowcroft.
- Keep the shop running smoothly by following agreed operational, financial and safety procedures.
- Respond positively to changing priorities and take a practical, hands-on approach when needed.
What you will bring
- Experience of retail and a genuine enthusiasm for creating an excellent customer experience.
- Commercial awareness, with the confidence to drive sales and work towards agreed targets.
- The ability to lead, encourage and build effective relationships with a diverse team of volunteers.
- Creativity and strong visual merchandising skills.
- A positive, solutions-focused approach, with the energy to make things happen.
- Alignment with Rowcroft’s values: Honesty & Integrity, Generosity of Spirit, Respect and Team Player.
Previous fashion retail experience would be helpful, but it is not essential. What matters most is your ability to lead well, learn quickly and create a positive experience for customers, volunteers and colleagues.
What is in it for you?
You will have clear expectations and the freedom to use your judgement, try new ideas and identify opportunities to grow sales. We will provide the support, training and guidance you need to succeed. You will also be part of a caring, inclusive and welcoming organisation where people work together with passion and pride.
The role can be busy and demanding – this is charity retail - we are honest about that. In return, you will see the purpose and impact of your work, feel recognised for your contribution and be part of something remarkable.
Working at Rowcroft Hospice
Rowcroft Hospice is an independent charity that provides comfort, support and specialist care to over 2,000 patients and their loved ones across South Devon each year. Our vision is to make every day the best it can be for patients, and those closest to them, living with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon.
For more information or an informal discussion about the role please contact Caroline Wannell, Director of Retail at caroline.wannell@rowcrofthospice.org.uk
Closing date: Monday 28th September 2026
Interview date: Interviews arranged on application
Shop Manager - Kings Ash Way, Paignton employer: Rowcroft Hospice
Rowcroft Hospice is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding volunteer experience in a supportive and friendly environment at our vibrant shop in Newton Abbot. As part of our dedicated team, you'll receive full training and have the flexibility to choose your hours, all while contributing to a meaningful cause that provides vital care to those in need across South Devon.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shop Manager - Kings Ash Way, Paignton
✨Get Your Retail Game On
Start by getting to know the local retail scene. Make a list of stores that align with your vibe and visit them. You'll be surprised at how many job openings come from chatting with staff or managers in-store. Plus, showing that you have a genuine interest in their brand can make you stand out when applying for that full-time role!
✨Join Retail Networks and Forums
Tap into retail-specific communities and forums, whether online or in-person. Platforms like Retail Week or local retail meetups can provide invaluable insights and connections. You never know who might drop a tip about an upcoming job at companies like Rowcroft Hospice, so don’t miss out on building those relationships!
✨Be Ready for Busy Season Opportunities
Keep your eyes peeled for seasonal hiring windows, especially in the run-up to major shopping periods. Retailers often look for full-time staff to carry through busy times and may even keep you on after the season. Stay proactive by regularly checking in with your favourite retailers about their hiring plans.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Retail’s all about customer interactions, so make sure you showcase any relevant experience in your conversations and interviews. Share specific examples of your customer service skills and how they’ve led to positive outcomes. This is your moment to shine when applying to roles at places like Rowcroft Hospice!
We think you need these skills to ace Shop Manager - Kings Ash Way, Paignton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Customer Service Skills:In retail, customer service is key! Make sure your CV highlights any experience where you've dealt with customers, whether it’s resolving issues or enhancing the shopping experience. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to handle difficult situations with ease.
Tailor Your CV for Retail:When applying for a full-time role like this one at Rowcroft Hospice, customise your CV to reflect retail-specific buzzwords. Include any relevant skills such as inventory management or visual merchandising, and if you have experience with POS systems, shout about it! This will show you’re serious about joining the retail team.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Don’t just repeat your CV in your cover letter! Use it as a chance to explain why you're excited about the opportunity at Rowcroft Hospice and how your values align with their brand. Mention specific aspects of the company that resonate with you and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Highlight Your Adaptability:In retail, things can get busy and unpredictable, so demonstrate how adaptable and flexible you are. Share examples of times you've had to adjust your approach on the fly or take on new responsibilities. This will show Rowcroft Hospice that you’re ready to jump in and contribute right away!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rowcroft Hospice
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Retail is all about providing an exceptional customer experience, so be ready to discuss your past customer service stories. We should have examples on hand of how we've handled difficult situations or gone above and beyond to meet a customer's needs. These anecdotes will bring your application to life!
✨Familiarity with Point of Sale Systems
Many retail roles require us to work with Point of Sale (POS) systems, so it's a good idea to brush up on any relevant software you’ve used before. If you’re familiar with systems like Shopify or Square, don’t forget to mention this during the interview. Highlighting technical proficiency can set us apart from other candidates!
✨Understand Product Knowledge
Be prepared to discuss the products that the store sells and how we can contribute to their sales. Showing enthusiasm for the products and a willingness to learn can impress interviewers. We should research popular items or trends in the industry before the interview, so we can speak confidently about them.
✨Be Ready for Role-Playing Scenarios
Many retail interviews include role-playing scenarios where we might have to deal with a difficult customer or upsell a product. Practising these scenarios with a friend or family member can help us feel more comfortable. The key here is to showcase our problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure!
