Jobs at Co Op in United Kingdom

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At Southern Co-op, we offer more than just a job. As we are entirely owned by our members, we prioritize people. Become part of the family with Southern Co-op, proud to serve local communities and put people first.

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team as an Area Support Centre Manager. In this role, you will manage, develop, and mentor the Funeral Service Operatives team to exceed client expectations by delivering the best end-of-life client experience across support centres and back-of-house operations.

You will cover areas including Berkshire, Hampshire & Surrey. Flexibility to cover wider areas may occasionally be required. As this role is field-based, you must hold a full UK driving licence. A company car is provided.

What to expect

• Support and deliver the End-of-Life Services vision, managing business objectives to ensure professional, caring, and empathetic funeral delivery in line with procedures.
• Assist the Funeral Operations & Logistics Manager in developing and evolving support centre operations and funeral delivery, implementing changes professionally.
• Investigate complaints promptly, reporting findings as per policies.
• Support bereavement and aftercare services for individuals, groups, and colleagues.
• Manage, coach, and develop Funeral Assistants and Area Support & Logistics Specialists.
• Oversee team performance, including reviews, recruitment, managing underperformance, sickness, and absence.
• Promote standards, behaviors, teamwork, accountability, and ownership within the team.
• Identify gaps in recruitment, retention, performance, health, wellbeing, and development for review.
• Achieve financial KPIs and targets within budget.
• Support business planning and service proposition, maintaining commercial sensitivity.
• Manage personnel budgets, overtime, rotas, and payroll processing.
• Ensure compliance with policies and regulations.
• Maintain security of premises, vehicles, and equipment.
• Implement risk management practices.
• Contribute to community engagement plans, promoting the brand positively.
• Liaise with external agencies and participate in networking to promote services.
• Demonstrate strong logistical management with commercial awareness.
• Possess knowledge or experience in funeral operations.
• Develop, coach, and lead teams effectively.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Exhibit excellent planning, organization, and flexibility.
• Communicate confidently, influence, and present well.
• Use initiative for problem-solving and decision-making.
• Manage time effectively and prioritize tasks.
• Be IT literate, proficient in MS Office.
• Engage with internal and external networks to build community links.

Company Benefits

• Salary of £36,000
• 31 days annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing to 36 days after 10 years.
• Company car
• 20% store discount
• Share incentive plan
• Opportunities for skills development through apprenticeships and in-house training.

If successful, a DBS check will be required to ensure compliance with NAFD Funeral Director standards.

High application volume may lead to early closing of the advert, so apply promptly.