Job Description

Job Title – Area Manager - Various locations

Reports to – Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Responsible for – Shop Managers, Assistant Managers &Van Drivers (in conjunction with CEO’sguidance)

Job Purpose – The post holder is responsible for supporting the CEO with the effective operation and performance of the charities retail premises, and with regards all aspects of the retail business.This will be as directed by the Area Manager and in conjunction with relevant guidance where required from the CEO.

Job Dimensions – The role will involve travel across the network of shops which are situated in a variety of regions around the UK, for which a vehicle is provided, and will on occasion be required to work away from home as the needs of the charity dictate. The post holder will take guidance from the CEO as to what the important business needs are, and take appropriate actions. This will be based upon the trading strategy and retail policies, which are set by the Board of Trustees. The role will involve driving the performance of the Shop Managers, identifying issues and training needs and ensuring they take full accountability for the shop and all their direct reports. In view of all the above the post holder will need to be fully flexible.

Further particulars

Shop Management

  • Ensure that all shops are covered in the occurrence of sick leave and holiday, and trade the advertised trading hours so the income of the charity is maximised.
  • Identify that the Shop Manager has sufficient stock levels to operate and achieve to sales performance on both donated and new goods.
  • Carry out mini audits to ensure that the shop complies with all operational matters and is compliant with policies and procedures.
  • Perform till checks, safe checks and bankbook checks to monitor charity income is not put at risk on a random basis, or where needed.
  • Ensure that the shop is actively promoting Gift Aid, and provide guidance and training where needed to drive this aspect.
  • Ensure that the retail premises are clean, tidy and the general standards of such are exceptional.
  • Maintain a good level of merchandising so that the shop, especially window areas are inviting and draw in customers.
  • Offer guidance to Store Managers if and when required in relation to customer complaints received.
  • Support the Store Manager(s) with regards any matters with the Cybertill Epos till systems.
  • Conduct Performance appraisals, and support the Recruitment Manager with recruitment or disciplinary matters as required.

Management of Volunteers

•Assess the shop has sufficient levels of volunteers and staff to effectively operate, and report any issues.

•Support Shop Managers and provide links and guidance to actively promote volunteer opportunities where they are needed, through training organisations, job centres etc.

•Manage standards to ensure volunteers deliver and “live out” the customer service policy.

•Ensure that volunteers are valued and their ideas are acknowledged.

•Ensure that Shop Managers provide sufficient induction, and that they promote the NVQ opportunities available.

•Supporting and conducting (where necessary), volunteer meetings and training to improve skills or deal with concerns.

•Delivering and ensuring that all volunteers deliver the expected levels of service to our customers.

•Continue to develop in line with the CEO the relationship between the charity and its network of volunteers and deliver ideas to enhance this.

•Encourage volunteers to work as a team, and deal with all volunteer complaints and issues.

Management of Policies and Procedures

•To be fully conversant with the policies and procedures which the charity sets out, and therefore able to ensure that the shops are compliant in all areas.

•Awareness of all Health & Safety policies relating to the welfare of both paid and volunteer staff.

•Ensure that all volunteers respect the contribution of others and work to promote a positive working environment, which is in line with Equal Opportunity and Diversity policies.

•To ensure an immediate response and compliance with any trading standards matters that are raised, and that the CEO, is kept informed.

General Accountability

•Maintain adequate stationery levels in all shops, ensuring they comply with the ordering systems in place.

•Identify any property maintenance issues, and take appropriate action.

•Identify opportunities in shops to drive performance, maximise sales or reduce costs.

•To keep under review shop equipment and to ensure that it is all in good working order.

•Providing shop cover when needed, if no alternative can be found, or other roles as necessary.

•Actively work towards stock generation campaigns and volunteer events to secure the future of the charity and maintain levels in these areas.

•To work with other areas of the business fundraising, project teams etc.

•Any other duties require by CEO

Post holders are expected to be familiar and comply with all policies and procedures published.

The job description is an overview of the main aspects/expectations of the role, and is liable to be progress and develop as the charity continues to expand. It is subject to variation which will be discussed as they occur, and is not exhaustive. The Post holder will be required to undertake any other duties as they dictated as long as they are perceived reasonable and within capability.

JD-Area Manager – Feb 2016 / 1