At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team, support customers, and ensure smooth store operations.
- Company: Join Wickes, a growing retailer with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive bonuses, generous holiday, discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; we value diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on leadership experience while making a real impact on customer satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our Store 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 progress your career 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 involves being 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:
- Supporting the Store Managers
- Leading the store in the Store Manager’s absence
- Delivering results through sales and exceptional service
- Inspiring and supporting colleagues to deliver great customer service
- Ensuring the store safety, compliance and operational excellence for everyone
- 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
- 6% pension contribution matched
- Up to 35 days’ holiday including bank holidays
- 20% colleague discount
- Save‑as‑you‑earn scheme
- 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 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.
What to do next: If you’re ready to take the next step in your retail career, build leadership experience and be part of a team that makes a real difference to customers’ homes, we'd love to hear from you. We aim to create an inclusive workplace with colleagues’ wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. We’re a Disability Confident Employer and committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from disabled people and are committed to providing an accessible recruitment process and workplace for everyone. If you require any support or reasonable adjustments, please let us know. Apply now!
Assistant Manager in Havant employer: Wickes
At Wickes, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment where our Store Assistant Managers can thrive. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide real opportunities for career progression, alongside competitive benefits such as a generous bonus scheme, matched pension contributions, and up to 35 days of holiday. Our down-to-earth culture fosters teamwork and inclusivity, ensuring that every colleague feels valued and empowered to make a difference in our customers' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Manager in Havant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Wickes, their values, and what makes them tick. This way, when you walk into that interview, you can show off your knowledge and passion for the brand.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your leadership stories! Think of times you've led a team or solved a problem in a fast-paced environment. We want to hear about your experiences that showcase your ability to inspire and support others.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to demonstrate your customer service skills. Prepare examples of how you've gone above and beyond for customers in the past. Remember, delivering a brilliant experience is key in this role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Wickes family and taking your career to the next level.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Manager in Havant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how much you care about delivering a brilliant customer experience and leading a team. Share specific examples that highlight your passion for retail and customer service.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Manager role. Highlight your relevant 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, so don’t hold back!
Be Yourself:We’re all about authenticity at StudySmarter. Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. Share your unique experiences and how they’ve shaped you as a leader. We want to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wickes
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the key responsibilities of an Assistant Manager. Familiarise yourself with the store's operations, customer service expectations, and how to lead a team effectively. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or resolved a challenging situation. Highlight your ability to motivate others and maintain a positive atmosphere, especially during busy times. This is crucial for demonstrating that you can thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Emphasise Customer Experience
Since delivering a brilliant customer experience is at the heart of this role, be ready to discuss how you've gone above and beyond for customers in previous positions. Share specific stories that illustrate your problem-solving skills and commitment to customer satisfaction.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the company culture, growth opportunities, and what success looks like in the Assistant Manager role. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
