Job summary
Do you have experience as a shop manager or have you worked as an assistant shop manager and are ready to take the next step in your career? Do you have a passion for charity retail and enjoy connecting with new people? If you're looking for a varied role where you can travel to different locations and build on your retail experience, we would love to hear from you!
Main duties of the job
We are currently seeking a Cover Store Manager (Multi-site) to manage the day-to-day operations of our retail stores in the absence of a Store Manager. You will also support the training and development of our retail teams, and assist with the set up of new shop openings, pop‑up shops, and retail events.
About us
Here at Rainbows Children’s Hospice, we provide specialist palliative care and end‑of‑life support to over 750 babies, children, and young people living with life‑limiting conditions and terminal illnesses as well as approximately 3,000 people, including families, siblings, and carers, across the East Midlands. Simply put, we are here to brighten short lives and support families wherever they are.
Details
Date posted: 21 November 2025
Pay scheme
Other
Salary
£24,095 a year pro rata
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Part‑time
Reference number
RAI1157270
Job locations
Rainbows Hospice, Lark Rise, Loughborough,
Loughborough
Leicestershire
LE11 2HS
Job responsibilities
Location: This role involves regular travel across the East Midlands to support operations at our various retail locations, ensuring consistent and high‑quality service delivery. In addition, the successful candidate will be expected to attend meetings, corporate inductions, and events at the Hospice in Loughborough.
Hours of work: 22.5 hours per week, typically over 3 shifts per week across Monday to Sunday.
Some of the key responsibilities include (but are not limited to):
* Manage the day‑to‑day operations of retail stores in the absence of a Store Manager.
* Provide support and training to retail teams across multiple locations.
* Assist with the setup and launch of new shops, pop‑up shops, and retail events.
* Oversee and support staff to ensure high levels of performance and morale.
* Deliver excellent customer service and resolve customer queries effectively.
* Monitor and manage stock levels, merchandising, and store presentation.
* Maintain operational standards and ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.
* Address challenges such as staffing issues or operational disruptions.
* Contribute to achieving and maintaining strong sales performance.
* Ensure a smooth and positive experience for both customers and team members.
Our benefits include:
* Eligibility to join the Blue Light card discount scheme and a membership at the Company Shop.
* Healthcare Cashback plan.
* Life Assurance.
* 27 days holiday plus bank holiday allowance (with expectation to work bank holidays in this role).
* Contributory pension scheme or salary sacrifice pension scheme.
* Free access to an employee assistance programme.
* Well‑being support and access to Mental Health First Aiders.
* Fun events, all staff away days, guest visitors.
For further information about this role and the responsibilities please contact Ben Wright, Retail Area Manager, on ben.wright@rainbows.co.uk. To apply for the role please click "apply now" to complete an online application form. If you require an alternative method of applying or would like to discuss reasonable adjustments further, please contact the Recruitment Team at recruitment@rainbows.co.uk. This role is subject to a Basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and comprehensive pre‑employment screening, including employment referencing covering the past five years. Please note: We reserve the right to close this advert early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Person Specification – Essential
* Experience in a retail environment or customer service role.
* Excellent management skills.
* Excellent customer service skills with the ability to implement agreed standards of service in the store.
* The ability to train and motivate volunteers.
* Able to work towards financial targets and manage budgets.
* Good administrative and organisational skills with the ability to monitor and analyse shop statistics.
* Working knowledge of Health & Safety and Fire Safety and ability to identify potential risks.
* Effective communication skills verbal & written.
* Self‑motivated and able to work independently but flexibly as part of a team.
* Sensitivity in supporting people in difficult and distressing circumstances.
* Good problem‑solving & decision‑making skills.
* Able to implement agreed policies and procedures and ensure compliance.
* Good attention to detail.
* Good planning and logistical skills.
* Basic level of computer literacy.
* Ability to prioritise and deal with conflicting work demands.
* Willing and able to work flexible hours across all 7 days of the week, including covering shifts during holidays as required.
* Able to work within professional and confidentiality boundaries.
* Driving licence and access to a vehicle.
* One Team – working together with fairness and respect.
* People‑Centred – championing inclusivity, compassion and clarity.
* Aim High – adapting, learning and sharing our expertise.
* Own It – focused, committed and accountable.
Person Specification – Desirable
* Previous success in managing a retail outlet.
* Previous charity retail experience.
* Previous experience of a field‑based or multi‑site role.
* Experience of working with and supporting volunteers.
* Working knowledge of risk assessments.
* Experience of volunteering.
* Intermediate or advanced PC skills.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and thus a submission for Disclosure will be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details
Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People
Rainbows Hospice, Lark Rise, Loughborough,
Loughborough
Leicestershire
LE11 2HS
Website: https://www.rainbows.co.uk
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