Area Manager

JR United Kingdom; Dorchester; On-site; GBP 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity organization is looking for a Retail Area Manager to lead its retail operations across West Dorset. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in retail management, with proven success in driving income and leading teams. This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact within the charity sector, contributing to community causes while expanding the organization's retail strategy and presence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of senior retail management experience.
• Proven track record in driving commercial results.
• Knowledge of charity retail and HR practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead retail strategy across shops and manage operations.
• Drive income through performance and budgeting.
• Identify new locations for potential retail outlets.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical Skills

Budget Management

Retail Operations

Tools

MS Office

Job description

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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 charity shops, driving income and innovation across our retail operations.

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

• 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)
• 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.