Assistant Shop Manager

Cats Protection; England; On-site; GBP 7,000 - 9,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK charity in Hythe is seeking a dedicated retail team member to assist in maximizing shop income and play a vital role as a brand ambassador. The position involves operational management and motivating a team of volunteers and employees. Ideal candidates will have relevant retail experience, understanding of sales targets, and financial controls. This permanent role offers a unique opportunity to work in retail for a cause that benefits cats and their owners.

Benefits

Range of health benefits

26 days’ annual leave

Salary Finance program

Qualifications

• Demonstrable learning and experience in a retail environment.
• Understanding of working to sales targets.
• Experience with cash reconciliation.

Responsibilities

• Assist Shop Manager to maximize shop income.
• Act as a brand ambassador for Cats Protection.

Skills

Retail experience

Sales targets knowledge

Financial controls

Team management

Job description

Job Details

• Team: Retail
• Location: Hythe
• Work pattern: 14 hours on a rota basis (including weekends)
• Salary: Up to £8,977.77 per annum
• Contract: Permanent

About the Charity

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Shop Manager to maximise shop income and profitability through safe day‑to‑day operational management of shop activity and key performance indicators, supporting the broader work of Cats Protection.
• Act as a brand ambassador for Cats Protection, being a role model for the charity’s values and behaviours, and taking responsibility for shop operation in the absence of the Shop Manager.

About the Retail Team

Our retail operation consists of over 80 charity shops. Each shop has its own charm and personality due to our dedicated volunteers and colleagues. From vintage jewellery and jigsaws to harps and handbags, we offer customers a varied range of items, whether they’re looking for a must‑have or a missing piece.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable learning and experience from working in a relevant retail environment.
• Experience and/or understanding of working to sales targets.
• Experience of cash reconciliation and financial controls.
• Ability to motivate and manage a team of employees and volunteers.

What We Can Offer You

• Range of health benefits.
• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service.
• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing.
• And much more – details available here.

How to Apply

Application closing date: 4th January 2026

Virtual interview date: Week commencing 12th January 2026

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. Please note, applications received after the closing date may not be responded to.

If you’re enthusiastic about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway and demonstrate how your experience is transferable. You may be just the right candidate.

Recruitment Process

• Anonymised application form.
• Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams.

Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes.

Contact

Please email [e-mail] if you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey.