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 charities presence on the high street and beyond.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead, mentor and support shop managers and volunteers to achieve retail excellence
2. Oversee performance, budgets, and day-to-day shop operations
3. Drive sales and profitability through effective merchandising and cost control
4. Identify and evaluate new shop locations, developing business cases for growth
5. Support income generation through both in-store and digital channels
6. Set and monitor shop sales targets, supporting teams to achieve them
7. Inspire and engage teams through clear communication and encouragement
8. Explore opportunities to grow our retail footprint and open new shops
9. Develop digital and online sales opportunities to complement high street stores
About You
Essential:
10. Proven experience in a senior retail management role (multi-site experience preferred)
11. Strong leadership and people development skills
12. Track record of driving commercial results and improving performance
13. Confident with budgets, reporting, and using data to make informed decisions
14. Excellent communication and organisational skills
15. Proficient in MS Office and familiar with EPOS systems
Desirable:
16. Charity retail experience and/or working with volunteers
17. Knowledge of Gift Aid, health & safety and HR best practice
18. Visual merchandising flair
19. Experience opening or setting up new shops
Other Requirements:
20. Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle
21. Willingness to travel across Dorset
22. Flexible, proactive, and community-minded
23. 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!