At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the management of a charity shop, maximising income and engaging with the community.
- Company: Join Willow, a charity making a real difference in the lives of seriously ill young adults.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and the chance to make an impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that creates special days for those in need while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail or volunteer management is a plus; passion for charity work is essential.
The predicted salary is between 20240 - 20240 € per year.
Position: Assistant Shop Manager – Stevenage
Reporting to: Shop Manager
Direct reports: Volunteers
Salary: £20,240 based on 30 hours or 4 days per week.
Hours: 30
Location: Stevenage, Hertfordshire
Willow’s charity shops deliver sustainable income for the charity, supporting the delivery of more than 1,200 special days, treats or breaks for our beneficiaries each year. Our shops also play a key role in the local community, raising awareness and support for Willow, as well as providing opportunities for volunteers.
Job Purpose
To contribute to income generation for Willow by supporting the management of a retail shop to the highest standards of good practice, compliance with policies and procedures and maximisation of income, profit, and promotion of Willow to the public.
Key Responsibilities
- To support the recruitment and retention of a motivated team of volunteers.
- To support income and profit maximisation through maximising donations, preparation of items for sale, sales and disposals of un‑saleable items to trade merchants; optimising the price for all donated stock.
- Achieve sales and profit targets in order that we are able to increase the number of special days, treats or breaks for seriously ill young adults.
- To maximise sign‑ups for retail Gift Aid and ensuring full records are maintained for donations under this scheme.
- To support the management of customer and donor engagement ensuring the best possible relationship with Willow.
- To support the management of the physical appearance of the shop maintaining high standards of shop merchandising and visual layout, managing space allocation through interpretation of sales data, controlling stock density and rotation systems, ensuring that it is inviting to customers and safe for customers, staff and volunteers at all times.
- To demonstrate understanding of Willow’s purpose and activities striving to improve brand awareness and communicate key messages in order to raise the charity’s profile.
- To support all shop administration including cash handling and daily banking functions accurately and to deadline, ensuring company policies and procedures are adhered to.
- To support daily work plans, ensuring that there are enough staff to support sales and stockroom functions and encouraging effective communication, setting objectives and fostering a positive team spirit.
- To be a key holder ensuring that the shop is secure at all times and following procedures in the event of any incidents.
- To ensure that trading standards regulations are adhered to at all times.
- To ensure, in collaboration with the Shop Manager, that the required number of weekly social media posts are shared on the shop Facebook and Instagram pages, to continue to drive engagement with our supporters.
- To work on Saturdays (and by prior agreement Sundays) as required within normal rota’d duties.
Generic Responsibilities
- To ensure all duties are carried out in a manner which promotes Willow’s equality and diversity policies.
- To promote a health and safety culture within the workplace, observing all health and safety rules and procedures and attend all training courses as required.
- To ensure that essential information of a sensitive or personal nature is not disclosed to, or discussed with inappropriate persons.
- To ensure that information is maintained in accordance with the Data Protection Act.
- To provide holiday cover for the Shop Manager (agreed in advance).
- To undertake other duties, commensurate with the post, as required.
Travel Requirements
To attend Managers’ meetings and training sessions as required.
Person Specification
Knowledge
- An appreciation of the value of things.
- Understanding of stock management.
- Ability to use Word and email.
- Ability to plan and organise own and teams workload.
- An affinity with Willow’s objectives and activities.
Skills and Abilities
- Accurate, conscientious, and self‑motivated.
- Ability to work on own and use initiative and make decisions.
- Good communication skills at all levels.
- An artistic streak, e.g. flair for display.
Assistant Shop Manager – Stevenage employer: Willow
Willow is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding opportunity to contribute to meaningful causes while fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. As an Assistant Shop Manager in Stevenage, you will play a vital role in generating income for the charity, engaging with the local community, and leading a motivated team of volunteers. With a focus on employee growth and development, Willow encourages creativity and initiative, making it a fulfilling place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Shop Manager – Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the charity! Before your interview, dive into Willow's mission and values. Understanding what they stand for will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your people skills! As an Assistant Shop Manager, you'll be working with volunteers and customers alike. Be ready to share examples of how you've built strong relationships in previous roles – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your creative flair! Since you'll be involved in shop merchandising, think about how you can make the shop visually appealing. Share any past experiences where you've successfully displayed products or created engaging layouts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, shoot a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Shop Manager – Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Willow:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Willow's mission shine through. Share why you believe in the charity's work and how you can contribute to making a difference in the community.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Shop Manager role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in retail and volunteer management, and demonstrate how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This ensures that your application goes directly to us and helps streamline the process, making it easier for you and us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willow
✨Know Your Charity
Before the interview, take some time to research Willow and its mission. Understand how the charity supports seriously ill young adults and think about how your role as an Assistant Shop Manager can contribute to that. This will show your genuine interest and alignment with their values.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working with volunteers, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed or inspired a group. Highlight your communication skills and how you foster a positive environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions about stock management and sales strategies. Think of specific situations where you've maximised income or improved shop appearance. Be ready to discuss how you would handle donations and engage with customers to boost sales and promote Gift Aid sign-ups.
✨Bring Your Creative Flair
The role requires an artistic touch for shop displays. Prepare to discuss any relevant experience you have in merchandising or visual layout. You might even want to bring along a portfolio or examples of your work to showcase your creativity and understanding of effective shop presentation.
