At Blue Cross, we're proud of our growing retail operation which plays a vital role in funding our mission to support pets and their owners. Following a strong 2024 and being shortlisted for Outstanding Retail Charity of the Year 2025 by the Charity Retail Association, we're looking for a talented Retail Area Manager to join our ambitious team and to build on that momentum. As Retail Area Manager, you will oversee a portfolio of 12-14 Blue Cross shops across Lancashire, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, and Yorkshire. Ideally, you will live within this geographic area. You'll be responsible for leading and supporting Shop Managers and volunteers to drive performance, maximize income and deliver an outstanding customer experience - all while upholding our animal welfare values. You'll travel regularly between sites (approx. 10,000 business miles/year), supported by a company vehicle in line with our environmental strategy.
You will bring experience managing multiple retail sites, preferably within the charity sector with vast experience in growing sales and improving net profit. You will be a hands‑on leader who can effectively manage and develop both employees and volunteers whilst demonstrating excellent communication and problem‑solving skills. A collaborative approach is essential, as the retail team plays a key role in wider Blue Cross initiatives such as Pet Food Banks.
Essential Knowledge, skills, and experience
* Full UK driving license
* Retail management within a commercial company and/or a UK registered charity
* Experience of achieving success against financial targets
* Experience of developing and monitoring budgets and operating plans
* Experience of direct management and ongoing development of staff in a multi‑site situation
Blue Cross benefits
Our people are the most important part of delivering our purpose. If it were not for their amazing efforts and commitment, we would not be able to make the difference that we do today.
In return, Blue Cross wants to ensure we provide you with the best working environment we can.
Our generous benefits package includes:
* Full time equivalent of 38 days holiday rising to 43 with service (including Bank Holidays)
* Programmes for physical and mental wellbeing support
* Free access to GP via MetLife - 24/7 GP services, private prescriptions and more for you and your family
* Health cash plan
* Unlimited access to an employee assistance programme
* Pension scheme with enhanced employer contribution
* Professional fees paid with Continuing Professional Development and personal development support.
* Life assurance
* 20% discount on Pet Plan pet insurance
* Enhanced family friendly policies
* Recognition scheme
* Annual volunteer days
* Charity worker discounts across a variety of retailers
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