Charity Retail Area Manager - Dorset

C2 Recruitment; Wareham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment firm is seeking an Area Manager to lead retail operations across Dorset, focusing on sales performance and team development. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in retail management and a passion for animal welfare. Responsibilities include mentoring shop managers, overseeing budgets, and enhancing customer experience. Join a supportive team making a real difference in the community.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior retail management role.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Confident with budgets and using data for decisions.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support shop managers and volunteers.
• Oversee performance, budgets, and operations.
• Drive sales through effective merchandising.

Skills

Leadership and people development

Driving commercial results

Budget management

MS Office proficiency

Excellent communication skills

Tools

EPOS systems

Job description

Position: Area Manager

Location: Dorset

Full-time: 37.5 hours per week

Salary: £32,000 - £36,000 per annum

Do you have a flair for retail and a heart for animals and people?

We are looking for a Retail Superstar a.k.a. Area Manager to help lead and grow the retail operation across Dorset raising vital funds to support animal care and community outreach.

If you are a natural leader who loves driving commercial performance, motivating teams and spotting new opportunities, this is your chance to make a real difference every day.

About the Role

As our Retail Area Manager, you'll be at the heart of our retail success, overseeing a network of charity shops, leading a passionate team of shop managers and volunteers, and helping to deliver an excellent customer experience that supports the charity.

You’ll bring fresh ideas, a commercial mindset, and genuine enthusiasm to help grow income and strengthen the charities presence on the high street and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and support shop managers and volunteers to achieve retail excellence
• Oversee performance, budgets, and day-to-day shop operations
• Drive sales and profitability through effective merchandising and cost control
• Identify and evaluate new shop locations, developing business cases for growth
• Support income generation through both in-store and digital channels
• Set and monitor shop sales targets, supporting teams to achieve them
• Inspire and engage teams through clear communication and encouragement
• Explore opportunities to grow our retail footprint and open new shops
• Develop digital and online sales opportunities to complement high street stores

About You

Essential

• Proven experience in a senior retail management role (multi-site experience preferred)
• Strong leadership and people development skills
• Track record of driving commercial results and improving performance
• Confident with budgets, reporting, and using data to make informed decisions
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Proficient in MS Office and familiar with EPOS systems

Desirable

• Charity retail experience and / or working with volunteers
• Knowledge of Gift Aid, health & safety and HR best practice
• Visual merchandising flair
• Experience opening or setting up new shops

Other Requirements

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
• Willingness to travel across Dorset
• Flexible, proactive, and community-minded
• A genuine passion for animal welfare and supporting local communities

Why Join Us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to bring your retail experience and leadership skills to a role that truly makes a difference. You’ll be part of a supportive, collaborative, and passionate team where new ideas are encouraged, successes are celebrated, and every day helps improve lives.

Interested?

Apply today and make a real impact in an amazing organisation where your contribution truly matters!

By applying for this role, you are consenting for C2 Recruitment to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations.

To view other great vacancies at C2 Recruitment, please visit our website or call us for a confidential chat about upcoming opportunities in :

Buying & Merchandising and Ecommerce | Charity & Non Profit | Design, Technical, Wholesale & Production | Finance | HR & Talent | H&S & Compliance | Hospitality, Catering & Leisure | Marketing, Digital & Technology | Office & Administration | Property & Centre Management | Retail, Trade and Luxury Operations | Senior Appointments & Executive | Sales & FMCG | Supply Chain & Logistics & Warehouse | Manufacturing & Engineering