At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team and ensure smooth store operations while delivering excellent customer service.
- Company: Join Wickes, a growing company with a supportive and down-to-earth culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive bonuses, up to 35 days holiday, and discounts across retailers.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; travel to nearby stores may be required.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting new store launch and develop your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer-facing roles and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The excitement is electric in Saffron Walden! We are launching a brand-new store and we have an experienced Store Manager who is building a top-tier team. To provide the right onboarding and training we are recruiting now and need two ambitious Assistant Managers to be part of this incredible launch. Our Assistant Managers are at the heart of our stores. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role where no two days are the same. You’ll lead from the front, support your team, and keep everything running smoothly, all while delivering a brilliant experience for our customers. If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, take ownership and develop towards becoming a Store Manager, this could be the opportunity for you. With plans to expand from 230 to 300 stores by 2030, we’re investing in our future, creating more opportunities for our colleagues to progress.
The role
As a Store Assistant Manager, you’re the go‑to person on shift. One moment you might be helping a customer design their dream kitchen or bathroom, the next you’re supporting a delivery, or solving a customer issue. It’s a role that keeps you moving, thinking and leading all day. You’ll play a key part across all areas of the store, including:
- Leading the store in the Store Manager’s absence
- Driving performance through sales and strong service
- Inspiring and supporting colleagues to deliver great customer service
- Keeping the store safe, legal and operationally strong
- Managing day‑to‑day operations
At Wickes, we operate across four key areas of the store:
- Helping customers find what they need (self‑serve)
- Supporting larger home projects from design to installation (showroom)
- Delivering great service through our sales teams (assisted selling)
- Making sure orders are fulfilled smoothly (order fulfilment)
It’s a varied, hands‑on role where you’ll build real leadership experience and learn every part of our business.
About you
You’ll thrive in this role if you enjoy variety and a fast‑paced environment. This is a role for someone who’s comfortable taking ownership. We’re looking for someone who:
- Has experience in a customer‑facing environment
- Can lead and motivate a team, even during busy or challenging days
- Is organised, adaptable and solutions‑focused
- Brings strong communication and people skills
- Takes pride in delivering a great customer experience
Experience in retail, trade, or a similar environment is essential. But it’s only as important as your behaviour and mindset.
What you’ll bring
- A hands‑on approach and willingness to get stuck in across all areas of the store.
- Problem‑solving skills and resilience in a fast‑moving environment.
- The ability to balance customer needs, team support and operational priorities.
- Confidence using systems and technology in day‑to‑day tasks.
- A full UK driving licence and flexibility to support nearby stores when needed.
What we offer
- We’ll support you to grow and develop your leadership skills, with real opportunities to progress.
- Up to 7.5% annual bonus + up to £300 per month gainshare bonus
- Up to 35 days’ holiday including bank holidays
- Life assurance
- Access to Digital GP and wellbeing support
- Discounts and cashback across a wide range of retailers
And you’ll be part of a supportive, down‑to‑earth culture where people genuinely look out for each other.
A few things to know
This is a physically active, hands‑on role. You may occasionally support nearby stores, so some flexibility and travel is needed. Flexible working can be discussed as part of your application.
If you need any reasonable adjustments during the application process, please let us know here.
Assistant Manager x 2 employer: Wickes
Wickes is an exceptional employer, especially for those looking to thrive in a dynamic retail environment in Saffron Walden. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we offer real opportunities to progress into leadership roles, alongside competitive benefits such as an annual bonus, generous holiday allowance, and a supportive work culture where teamwork and customer service excellence are at the forefront. Join us as we expand our store network and be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters a sense of community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Manager x 2
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Wickes and understand their values, products, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you've led a team or solved a problem in a fast-paced environment. Being able to share these experiences will demonstrate your capability to thrive as an Assistant Manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. This can give you insider insights and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing that role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're proactive and serious about joining our exciting new store launch!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Manager x 2
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how excited you are about being part of our new store launch and how you can contribute to creating a brilliant experience for our customers.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Manager role. Highlight your experience in customer-facing environments and any leadership roles you've had. We love seeing how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Be Specific:In your cover letter, be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role. Share examples of how you've led a team or solved problems in a fast-paced environment – we want to know what makes you stand out!
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 this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wickes
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the Assistant Manager role thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities like leading the team, driving sales, and ensuring customer satisfaction. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the position.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or handled challenging situations. Highlight how you motivated your colleagues and ensured a great customer experience, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of specific instances where you've solved problems in a fast-paced environment. Be ready to discuss how you balanced customer needs with operational priorities, as this will show that you're adaptable and solutions-focused.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the store's culture, training opportunities, or future expansion plans. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
