Retail Store Manager

About The Works

The Works Stores Ltd is the UK's foremost retailer specializing in affordable, screen-free activities for all family members, offering products in arts and crafts, stationery, toys and games, and books. We do more than sell merchandise; we inspire reading, learning, creativity, and play, helping customers discover new interests, hobbies, and reconnect with passions.

Role Overview

As a Retail Store Manager based in York, England, you will lead and manage your store's success by motivating your team and delivering excellent customer experiences. Your role encompasses ownership of daily operations, team leadership, and achieving commercial goals. You will ensure the store is welcoming, well-maintained, and offers engaging interactions that inspire customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop your team to excel in customer service and meet store objectives.
• Act as a brand ambassador by representing The Works’ values and inspiring your team.
• Drive store performance using data and insights to make informed decisions.
• Maintain top standards in merchandising, stock availability, and store appearance.
• Recruit, onboard, train, and build a highly engaged and productive team.
• Manage staff rotas, payroll, and everyday operations efficiently.
• Enforce compliance with health and safety, cash handling, and loss prevention.
• Cultivate an inclusive team culture focused on development, support, and well-being.
• Collaborate with area and central teams to implement initiatives and share customer feedback.

Desired Skills and Attributes

• Proven retail management experience, preferably in high-volume/value settings.
• Strong leadership abilities with a focus on people development.
• Commercial awareness with a solid record of delivering business results.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and planning skills.
• Comfortable analyzing data to improve performance.
• Adaptability, resilience, and flexibility to handle shifting priorities.
• Experience with retail systems, reporting tools, recruitment, and training processes.
• Technologically proficient with back-office systems, EPoS tills, email, and video conferencing.

Leadership Philosophy

• Inspire and motivate your team in alignment with The Works’ values and purpose.
• Encourage teamwork and collaboration across departments and peers.
• Prioritize everyday constructive feedback to enhance team and store success.
• Support your team’s well-being and career aspirations through active engagement.

Employment Details and Benefits

• Contract: 40 hours per week.
• Colleague discount of 25% plus additional double discount days.
• Exclusive access to MyWorks providing discounts on retailers, holidays, utilities, and technology.
• Enhanced family-friendly leave including maternity, paternity, and adoption pay.
• Generous holiday allowance of 33 days including bank holidays.
• Financial flexibility with Stream allowing early access to 50% of earned wages.
• Opportunities for professional development via the Can-Do Academy.
• Participation in an employee share scheme.
• 24/7 employee assistance and support programs.
• Healthcare cash plans supporting everyday medical costs.
• Additional perks such as long service awards, pension scheme, life assurance, Cycle to Work scheme, and optional charity contributions.

Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

The Works is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can be authentic. The role is open to all applicants, particularly encouraging those from underrepresented communities. Flexible working arrangements and reasonable adjustments are welcomed and supported throughout hiring and employment processes.