Customer Team Member reference: 1059216

## Opportunity Review: Customer Team Member at Co-op (Old School Row, Shotton Colliery) This review aims to provide potential candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the Customer Team Member role at Co-op's Old School Row location in Shotton Colliery, highlighting its advantages and key considerations for career development.

This part-time, permanent position offers a competitive hourly rate of £12.60, with regular opportunities for overtime. The role requires flexibility, with varied shifts including early mornings, afternoons, late evenings, and weekends. This adaptability can be a significant advantage for individuals seeking to supplement their income or balance work with other commitments, such as education or family responsibilities.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Exceptional Benefits Package: Co-op stands out with a generous array of benefits. Employees receive 31 days of holiday (pro-rata for part-time), a pension scheme with up to a 10% employer contribution, and access to virtual healthcare services for the entire family. This comprehensive support for well-being is a significant draw.
• Substantial Staff Discount: A 30% discount on all Co-op products and an additional 10% off other brands offers considerable savings for employees, making this a financially rewarding role beyond the hourly wage.
• Commitment to Well-being: Co-op's dedication to colleague well-being is evident through their support for physical, mental, and financial health, including innovative policies for life events. The inclusion of Wagestream, a money management app, empowers employees to access their earned pay as needed.
• Comprehensive Training and Development: Full, paid training is provided, ensuring all new team members are equipped with the necessary skills. The emphasis on personal development and career progression suggests opportunities for growth within the organization.
• Supportive Work Environment: The description highlights a friendly team environment focused on helping customers and colleagues. This collaborative spirit can foster a positive and engaging workplace.
• Flexible Application Process: The ability to apply via mobile device without a CV simplifies the initial application, making the opportunity accessible to a wider range of candidates.
• Predictable Scheduling: Rotas are shared three weeks in advance and are accessible on your phone, offering a good level of predictability for personal planning.
• Inclusivity and Diversity: Co-op demonstrates a strong commitment to building diverse teams and fostering an inclusive workplace. They actively welcome applications from all backgrounds and offer support for candidates with disabilities through the Disability Confident scheme.

Key Considerations for Career Path:

• Customer Service Focus: The core of this role is providing excellent customer service. Candidates who thrive on interaction, problem-solving, and making a positive impact on shoppers' experiences will find this role particularly fulfilling.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Success in this position relies heavily on working effectively with colleagues. Individuals who are team-oriented and enjoy supporting others will be well-suited.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: The role involves a variety of tasks, from operating tills to restocking shelves and maintaining store cleanliness. A proactive approach to change and a willingness to tackle diverse challenges are essential.
• Community Engagement: There is an opportunity to get involved in local community activities, which can be rewarding for those who wish to contribute beyond their direct work responsibilities.
• Part-Time Nature: While offering flexibility, the 16 hours per week means this role may be ideal for individuals seeking supplemental income, students, or those who prefer a part-time commitment. For those aiming for full-time careers, this could be a stepping stone or a complementary role.
• Shift Flexibility: The varied shift patterns require a degree of flexibility. Candidates should be comfortable with working a range of hours, including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends.

In summary, the Customer Team Member position at Co-op offers a compelling opportunity for individuals seeking a role with excellent benefits, a supportive environment, and the chance to make a tangible contribution to their local community. The emphasis on training and well-being, coupled with a flexible work arrangement, makes it an attractive option for many career paths.