Lead General Merchandise Manager in Hedge End

Responsibilities include directing a small team of managers to showcase all non-food products from homeware to beauty, including the TU and Habitat brands. Planning for upcoming key trading activity by working closely with the store leadership team. Taking full accountability for the store in the absence of a store manager, role modelling and coaching for high standards and efficiency across the store. Ensuring correct management of stock in the in-store warehouse.

Qualifications involve people management, managing performance and capability, conducting disciplinaries, and ensuring accurate scheduling and pay. A passionate leader who is consistently ambitious for customers and colleagues, growing their team to do the same. Experience of managing managers in a fast-paced, customer-facing environment is advantageous. An operator comfortable managing alone in the absence of senior management, driven to deliver high performance with a focus on efficiency and engagement. Confident in the use of data, understanding and interpreting KPIs or other performance indicators, with experience of improving these. Puts inclusivity at the heart of their work, building an inclusive team and working environment. Can manage disciplinaries, performance issues, or other employee relations issues up to dismissal. Experience leading large teams in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment, developing leaders, building high-performing teams, and creating a culture of ownership and accountability. A track record of delivering exceptional customer experiences across complex operations, evidenced through their team. Proven success in delivering and improving KPIs, from sales and stock availability to customer satisfaction and colleague engagement. Experience managing sensitive and complex people matters, including performance, absence, and formal employee relations cases, with confidence, fairness, and sound judgement. Leadership experience in an operational environment, whether in retail, hospitality, or food service, owning departmental performance and confidently leading the store in the absence of senior leadership. Evidence of leading change, rolling out new ways of working, embedding new systems, or shifting team mindsets.

Benefits include a salary dependent upon experience, store size, complexity, and location. A great range of benefits for managers includes:

• Discount card – 10% discount off shopping at Sainsbury's, Argos, Tu, and Habitat after four weeks, increasing to 15% discount at Sainsbury's every Friday and Saturday and 15% off at Argos every payday.
• An annual bonus scheme based on performance.
• Free food and hot drinks provided for colleagues in all stores.
• Generous holiday entitlement, maternity, and paternity leave.
• Pension – matching 4-7.5% of pension contributions.
• Sainsbury's share scheme – build up an investment at discounted rates.
• Wellbeing support – access to emotional support, counselling, legal and financial advice.
• Colleague networks – link with like-minded people to help fulfil potential.
• Cycle to Work scheme for hiring a new bike and cycling equipment, saving on tax and NI.
• Special offers on gym memberships, restaurants, holidays, retail vouchers, and more.

An inclusive place to work and shop: We are dedicated to being a truly inclusive retailer, where every colleague can achieve their full potential and every customer feels welcome. Colleagues may be entitled to enhanced discretionary leave for families and support for carers. Resources are provided to help colleagues understand and support their role and team effectively. Internal colleague networks ensure true representation for everyone, helping identify and remove barriers. A range of development opportunities, including mentorship, training, and career progression pathways, are offered to help colleagues grow and succeed. Diversity is celebrated through various initiatives and events, fostering a culture of inclusion and respect.