Retail Operations Manager

Job Description

Aspens is at a critical stage of its retail journey. We have put in place a lot of the retail fundamentals and have a good base to build from. We want someone to bring their energy and expertise to complete our vision, working closely with the Director of Business Development and Income Generation as well as others across Aspens to take us to a place where our Retail and Hospitality business generate significant funds for the charity.

We work across the Southeast of England; supporting individuals with autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities and physical disabilities across residential care homes, supported living homes, day services and our fantastic outreach programme.

Each of our services is unique and supports individuals with different support needs. Because of this, Aspens Charities are able to offer a variety of amazing roles and challenges to suit what you may be looking for.

Aspens has a small chain (four)of retail shops located across Kent and Sussex, a growing eCommerce business and a thriving Café located on our site near Tunbridge Wells.

What you can expect from us:

• Fantastic paid training and career progression opportunities (including recognised qualifications in health and social care)
• Paid DBS (we will recover the cost should your employment terminate for any reason, other than redundancy, before passing your probation)
• Flexible work arrangements with opportunities to take on additional bank shifts too
• 30 Days Annual Leave (including Bank Holidays) / Pro rata dependent on hours. Annual leave entitlement increases with length of service
• Nest Pension and Death in Service Benefit (Includes unlimited access to a suite of six services: a 24/7 UK-based GP, Best Doctors, mental health support, a health check, access to nutrition consultations and an online fitness programme [Smart Health])
• Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and Access to Mental Health First Aiders
• Hardship loans and advance (subject to conditions)
• Enhanced family leave pay
• Travel season tickets (interest free loans for those wishing to purchase a travel season ticket)
• Aspens High Street Stores – 20% discount on all items for Aspens’ staff
• Blue Light Card and access to high-street discounts
• Refer a Friend scheme, so you can earn up to £250 for every person you refer to work for Aspens
• Recognition schemes, including ‘Employee of the Month’

Scope:
To manage a small team to raise as much cash and awareness as possible by positively representing charity brand through the presentation of the retail offer and team spirit, in line with charity values and in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. This role is the most senior in the retail team and accountable for overall budget in terms of driving income and keeping down costs. You will need an entrepreneurial spirit, creative flair, and a direct understanding of how charity retail works in terms of best practice, alongside donor and customer satisfaction. You will be committed to safe working practices and role model associated behaviours, prioritising investment of time and resources.

Essential Requirements:

• Previous experience in area retail management, preferably in a charity shop or similar environment.
• Good knowledge of retail operations, including inventory management, merchandising and customer service best practices.
• Demonstrable strong leadership and team management skills with experience in performance management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Organisational and multitasking skills in managing dispersed teams.
• Financial acumen and budget management experience, able to write reports for leadership.
• Passion for the mission and values of the charity.
• Specific or on the job training in Visual Merchandising, Space Management, Stock Acquisition, Store development
• Flexibility to travel around our geographical locations (currently mainly Kent and Sussex)
• Driving Licence and access to own vehicle

Desirable Requirements:

• Previous experience in either/both eCommerce or Hospitality (café) business.
• Qualifications in Business Administration or Retail Management or related field.
• eCommerce training
• Accredited Food Hygiene training

For the job description in full, see here – Retail Operations Manager Job Description and Person Specification April 2024

Additional Information

How to apply:

For more information and to apply online, please visit our website.

Alternatively, contact recruitment@aspens.org.uk