Customer Assistant - Food - Southbank Place reference: 6242545215

Opportunity Review: M&S Customer Assistant (Foods) - Early Morning Shift

Marks & Spencer is actively seeking passionate and customer-focused individuals to join their team as a Customer Assistant in the Foods section. This role offers a unique opportunity for those who thrive in a fast-paced retail environment and are eager to champion high-quality products and exceptional customer service. If you are looking to make a tangible impact and grow within a respected brand, this position warrants your careful consideration.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Brand Ambassadorship: You'll be at the forefront of the M&S brand, acting as a knowledgeable and enthusiastic advocate for their extensive range of Food products. This is a chance to develop and showcase your product expertise.
• Customer-Centric Role: The core of this position is about creating memorable experiences for customers. You'll have the opportunity to engage directly, understand their needs, and provide "remarkable service" that makes them feel valued.
• Digital Integration: M&S is committed to a digital-first approach. You'll gain hands-on experience with in-store digital tools and the Sparks App, enhancing your digital confidence and ability to serve customers efficiently.
• Teamwork and Inclusivity: This role emphasizes the importance of being a strong team player, contributing to a positive and inclusive store environment, and fostering respectful relationships with colleagues and the community.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: The retail landscape is dynamic. This position will hone your ability to adapt to changing demands and work effectively across different store areas, a valuable skill in any career path.
• Career Development Potential: M&S offers training to utilize digital tools and communication channels, laying a foundation for potential growth and further opportunities within the company.
• Unsocial Hours Premium: While the core hours are early morning, the description notes an additional unsocial hours premium for work between 22:00-06:00, which is worth noting should shifts extend or change.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Work Pattern: The primary work pattern is Wednesday to Saturday, from 05:00 to 09:00. This early morning schedule is a significant factor to consider for your personal and professional life. It's an excellent opportunity for those who prefer to start their day early or need to balance work with other commitments later in the day.
• Age Restriction: Due to the early morning working hours, this role is not open to applicants under 18 years of age, in line with health and safety legislation.
• Physical Demands: The role requires a proactive approach, "rolling up your sleeves," and working hard. This suggests a degree of physical activity is involved, such as stocking shelves and being on your feet.
• Performance Focus: You will be expected to monitor and deliver on daily sales targets and promotions. This requires a driven and results-oriented mindset.
• Commitment to Feedback: The "Key Capabilities" highlight being open to and acting upon feedback, and regularly seeking it. This indicates a culture that values continuous improvement and professional development.
• Product Knowledge: Building "expert product knowledge" is a key accountability. This requires a genuine interest in M&S Food products and a willingness to learn and share that knowledge.

This Customer Assistant role at M&S presents a compelling opportunity for individuals who are dedicated to providing outstanding customer experiences and are eager to contribute to a forward-thinking retail environment. The early morning schedule offers a distinct work-life balance advantage for the right candidate, while the emphasis on digital tools and teamwork prepares you for the evolving demands of the modern retail industry.