Charity Retail Area Manager - Dorset

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

Job summary

A leading charity organization is seeking an Area Manager to oversee retail operations in Dorset. The successful candidate will lead a team of shop managers and volunteers, driving sales and enhancing customer experiences while supporting animal welfare initiatives. A passion for retail and leadership in a community-focused role is essential. The position offers a full-time engagement, and a salary range of £32,000 - £36,000 per annum.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior retail management role, preferably multi-site.
• Strong leadership and people development skills.
• Track record of driving commercial results and performance improvements.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Leadership

Commercial performance

Communication

Organizational skills

Data analysis

MS Office proficiency

Visual merchandising

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 and Devon, 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 charity's 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!

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