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Retail Area Manager (Fixed-Term Contract)
Location: West Dorset
Full-time (37.5 hours) or Part-time (30 hours)
£30,000 per annum (pro rata for part-time)
2-year fixed term contract (potential to extend)
Are you an experienced retail leader looking for your next challenge in a rewarding and purpose-driven environment? We are seeking a Retail Area Manager to lead and develop a growing network of 3 charity shops, driving income and innovation across our retail operations.
This role is perfect for a Store Manager looking to step up or a current Area Manager.
About the Role
This is a new and hands-on leadership opportunity to shape and deliver our retail strategy, with a focus on income generation, operational excellence, and future expansion. You'll be responsible for overseeing shop operations, managing staff, and identifying opportunities for growth - including new shop locations and online income streams.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver the retail strategy across existing and future retail sites
- Manage budgets, performance, and operations for a network of charity shops
- Line manage and support shop managers and volunteers, including recruitment and training
- Drive income through strong commercial performance, visual merchandising and cost control
- Identify new shop locations and develop business cases for expansion
- Ensure compliance with health & safety and organisational policies
- Explore additional revenue streams including e-commerce and social media engagement
- Represent the organisation in meetings and local events as required
Finance & Performance
- Set shop targets and monitor performance
- Analyse sales trends and implement data-driven improvements
- Coordinate with internal teams on payroll, utilities, and financial reporting
People Management
- Lead and develop shop teams, ensuring strong communication and engagement
- Maintain staffing levels and oversee rota planning
- Implement fair and consistent recruitment, appraisal and disciplinary processes
- Foster a positive team culture across all site
Business Development
- Identify and assess new locations for potential retail outlets
- Oversee the planning, costing, and launch of new shops
- Expand retail beyond traditional outlets, including digital sales platforms
What We're Looking For
Essential:
- Minimum 2 years of senior retail management experience
- Proven track record in driving commercial results
- Strong leadership, people development and communication skills
- Budget management and analytical capabilities
- Knowledge of retail operations and customer service excellence
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Desirable:
- Experience in charity retail and volunteer management
- Knowledge of health & safety compliance and HR practices
- Understanding of Gift Aid and fundraising initiatives
- Visual merchandising expertise
- Experience in opening and fitting out new shop premises
Additional Requirements
- Full UK driving licence and access to a car
- Willingness to travel across the region
- Flexible, proactive and adaptable attitude
- Passion for community engagement and charitable work
Why Join Us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to take the lead in a vital retail function, with the scope to influence long-term growth and help support a meaningful cause. You'll join a supportive team that values innovation, collaboration and impact.
To Apply
If you're a driven and commercially minded retail professional looking to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.
By applying for this role, you are consenting for us to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations.
C2 Recruitment is a Specialist Retail Recruitment Consultancy recruiting across the UK and Internationally. We Specialise in Buying & Merchandising and Ecommerce | Charity & Non Profit | Design, Technical, Wholesale & Production | Finance | HR & Talent | H&S & Compliance | Hospitality & Leisure | Marketing, Digital & Technology | Property & Centre Management | Retail, Trade and Luxury Operations | Senior Appointments & Executive | Sales & FMCG | Supply Chain & Logistics & Warehouse.
