Deputy Stores Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth

At Whittard of Chelsea, we’ve been inspiring moments of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate delight since 1886. Behind every store experience is a leadership team that brings our story to life through passion, performance, and pride. We’re now looking for a Deputy Manager at our Gunwharf Quays store to support the Store Manager in delivering exceptional service, empowering a brilliant team, and helping the store run like clockwork.

Whether you’re on the shop floor with a sample tray or reviewing daily performance with the team, you’ll be a key part of what makes our stores special. You’ll be a trusted co-pilot to the Store Manager, leading the team, solving challenges in real time, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. You’ll coach your team to bring our products to life through storytelling, tastings, and memorable service moments.

You’ll set the tone for a positive and high-performing team culture by giving live feedback, managing rotas, and motivating through busy spells. You’ll help induct, train, and develop colleagues, celebrating wins and building confidence every step of the way.

You’ll track KPIs like conversion and ATV, and work with your Store Manager to spot trends, adapt your approach, and implement ideas that drive performance. You’ll ensure the operational engine of the store is running smoothly, efficiently, and safely, including stock counts, deliveries, and H&S compliance. You’ll also ensure the store looks brilliant and meets Whittard’s visual standards every day.

Whether it’s connecting with local businesses or supporting marketing activity, you’ll play a key role in building the store’s reputation and reach within the local community.

We’re looking for someone who’s ready to take their next step in leadership—with energy, confidence, and a love for retail. Experience in a supervisory or assistant management role within a retail environment is essential. Strong commercial instincts, with confidence in reading reports and using data to influence daily decisions, are required. Great organisation and time management skills are necessary, as well as a genuine passion for creating brilliant customer experiences and sharing your product knowledge with pride.

As a Deputy Manager, you’ll get the support to grow your skills, lead your team, and take the next step when you’re ready.

• Up to 50% store discount – discover your new favourites!
• Monthly product allowance – a little treat with every pay cheque.
• Discretionary bonus scheme – because great work should be recognised.
• Wellbeing resources & family-friendly policies – because we care about the whole you.
• Opportunities to connect across stores and head office – be part of something bigger.

Together as a Whittard family, we continue to create a culture that encourages, supports, and inspires all our employees to have a voice, to make a positive difference in helping to develop our ambitious brand.