Retail Manager

BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums); Bristol; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in conservation and education is seeking a Visitor Experience and Retail Manager. This exciting role involves overseeing retail operations at a renowned zoo, ensuring a visitor-focused service that maximizes sales and profitability. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in customer service and team management, along with innovative strategies to enhance the retail experience. Join a passionate team dedicated to conservation and education, where your contributions will directly impact visitor engagement and satisfaction. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a dynamic environment that values creativity and teamwork.

Benefits

33 days paid holiday

Branded uniform provided

Training opportunities

Free entry to zoos for staff and family

Discounts in Catering and Retail

Free staff parking

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience in customer service and team management.
• Proven financial understanding and budgeting skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee retail operations and strategic development at Paignton Zoo.
• Develop business strategies to meet sales and profit targets.

Skills

Customer Service

Team Management

Financial Understanding

Business Strategy Development

Education

Level 3 Qualification

Job description

Wild Planet Trust - Paignton Zoo

South West

Closing date for applications is: 23rd May 2025

Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific, and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in south west England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by visitors and the expertise of our staff.

Paignton Zoo, opened in 1923, is one of the South West’s largest conservation organisations and a top visitor attraction, housing over 230 species of animals and an award-winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Visitor Experience and Retail Manager to join our team on a permanent contract. The role involves working 37.5 hours per week on a rota including weekends and bank holidays, with a salary of £33,325.50 per annum.

What will this role involve?

You will oversee the operation and strategic development of retail outlets at Paignton Zoo, working with the Head of Department to ensure efficient, visitor-focused, and profitable service delivery. Responsibilities include developing business strategies to meet or exceed sales and profit targets, managing retail image and presentation, stocking suitable products, and exploring new markets and trends. You will also line-manage the Visitor Experience and Retail Supervisors.

What skills and experience are required?

The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in customer service, a relevant Level 3 qualification, experience working to deadlines in a fast-paced environment, and team management skills. Financial understanding such as budgeting, proactive and target-driven approach, innovation in promotion strategies, and a team-oriented positive attitude are essential.

Benefits of joining our team include:

• 33 days paid holiday pro-rata (including Bank Holidays)
• Branded uniform provided (as required)
• Internal and external training opportunities
• Free entry to our zoos for staff and family
• Discounts in Catering and Retail outlets
• Free staff parking
• Employee Assistance Programme

Please note that applications are reviewed throughout the advertising period and the role may be filled before the closing date.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and encourage applications from all individuals regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy, race, religion, or belief, marriage, and civil partnerships.

Only applications completed through our website will be considered.