Retail Branch Manager

My client has a rare opportunity for a experienced Retail Branch Manager to head up their retail outlet in Sandwich, Kent. Reporting into the Regional Manager, the Retail Branch Manager will be responsible for empowering the team to deliver the stores KPI s; maximising sales, controlling costs and delivering first class customer service.

You will need to be an expert in your field, with previous experience of being the number 1 within a busy retail store. You will ideally have excellent knowledge of pet and animal care (or similar) and be comfortable in advising customers in this. Knowledge of equine care would be advantageous however not essential.

As Retail Branch Manager you will be leading from the front in this fast paced and demanding role, dealing with both retail and trade customers so you will need to be able to hit the ground running, take a hands on approach and not be afraid to get stuck in.

Retail Branch Manager Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement shop merchandising, lay out and customer traffic flow so as to maximize sales, customer satisfaction, appearance, image and ergonomics for customers
• Manage selling and customer service activities and staff competence in these areas to optimize and sustain sales performance, profitability and customer satisfaction
• Liaise with and utilise support from suppliers, merchandisers and other partners as required
• Manage, maintain and report as necessary all merchandise and non-merchandise stock
• Manage upkeep and condition of all equipment, fixtures and fabric of shop premises
• Manage health and safety, security, and emergency systems, capabilities and staff and customer awareness, according to company policy and relevant law.
• Manage and motivate staff, recruit staff, train and develop staff according to agreed policies
• Attend meetings and contribute to company strategy and policy-making as required

Retail Branch Manager Duties include but not exclusive:

• Ensure verbal and written instructions are carried out effectively and efficiently
• Manage merchandising and perform stock control effectively
• Manage the maintenance of hygiene and cleanliness of the branch
• Professionally communicate and liaise verbally with customers/ suppliers/ visitors/ enquirers/ co-workers and managers.

Branch Manager Skills/Experience Required:

• Due to the rural location of this store you would require your own transport
• Be passionate about working in retail and be confident in building relationships with customers, colleagues and suppliers
• A good knowledge of animals/pets would be an advantage
• Have a proven track record of delivering high standards and great results!
• Ability to motivate self and others essential
• Important to be able to work on own initiative
• Be an effective communicator
• Excellent leadership skills
• Must be computer literate
• A confident and friendly personality is essential

Branch Manager Remuneration:

Competitive Salary with an OTE of 30 - 32K per annum per annum plus annual performance related bonus

28 Days Paid Annual Leave (including Bank Holidays)

BUPA Health Cash Plan & Rewards Scheme

Cycle to Work Scheme

Generous Staff Discount Scheme

Company Pension with 5% Employer Contributions

This vacancy comes at a time which sees great growth within the business and the pet and animal sector in general, If you have the experience or feel you could step into this exciting opportunity then please apply immediately.