Customer Team Member reference: 1060015

This review provides an in-depth look at the Customer Team Member opportunity at Co-op's Olden Road, Northampton store. It's designed to help potential candidates assess if this role aligns with their career aspirations and lifestyle.

Opportunity Overview

The Co-op is seeking dedicated Customer Team Members to join their friendly team. This is a permanent, part-time position offering 20 hours per week with the potential for regular overtime. The role encompasses a variety of essential store duties, including direct customer service, operational tasks, and working within the in-store bakery.

Key Advantages for Candidates

This role presents several compelling benefits for individuals seeking stable employment with a supportive employer:

• Generous Benefits Package: Co-op offers an impressive array of perks, including:
  • 31 days of holiday (pro-rata for part-time).
  • A competitive pension scheme with up to 10% employer contributions.
  • Access to virtual healthcare services for the employee and their family, covering GP appointments, mental health support, and more.
  • A substantial 30% discount on all Co-op products and 10% on other brands, providing significant savings.
  • Stream access for early access to earned wages.
  • A 24/7 employee assistance service for well-being support.
• Comprehensive Training and Development: Co-op provides full, paid training, ensuring you have the skills and confidence to excel. There is a commitment to supporting personal development and career progression, making this an excellent starting point or a stepping stone for future opportunities within the organisation.
• Supportive and Inclusive Workplace: Co-op emphasizes a strong focus on colleague well-being, offering market-leading policies for life events and dedicated support for physical, mental, and financial health. They are committed to building diverse teams and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
• Flexibility and Predictability: While the role requires a varied shift pattern (including early mornings, evenings, and weekends), rotas are shared three weeks in advance and are accessible via mobile. This provides a degree of predictability for personal planning.
• Community Focus: As a member-owned organisation, Co-op encourages involvement in local community activities, offering a chance to contribute beyond the store.
• Simplified Application Process: No CV is required, and you can apply easily via your mobile device, with online assessments taking approximately 20 minutes.

Key Considerations for Candidates

To ensure this role is the right fit, potential candidates should consider the following:

• Age Requirement: Candidates must be 18 years or older due to the potential for working before 6 am or after 10 pm.
• Shift Flexibility: The working pattern includes varied shifts, covering store opening and closing times, as well as weekends. A willingness to be flexible with scheduling is essential. This will be discussed further at the interview.
• Diverse Responsibilities: Beyond customer service at the till and on the shop floor, the role involves tasks such as restocking shelves, maintaining cleanliness, and working in the in-store bakery. A proactive and adaptable approach is required.
• Customer-Centric Mindset: A genuine care for customer needs, excellent people skills, and a positive attitude towards problem-solving and change are crucial for success in this customer-facing role.
• Location: The position is based at the Olden Road, Northampton, NN3 5DD store.
• Part-Time Nature: While overtime is available, the base contract is for 20 hours per week. Candidates should ensure this meets their income requirements.

Career Path Guidance

For individuals looking to build a career in retail or customer service, this role at Co-op offers a solid foundation. The comprehensive training, focus on personal development, and the opportunity to gain experience across various store functions (including bakery operations) can equip you with transferable skills. The supportive environment and the organization's commitment to employee well-being make it an attractive long-term prospect. Furthermore, Co-op's structure and values provide a unique opportunity to work for an organisation with a strong social conscience.

Overall, the Customer Team Member position at Co-op offers a rewarding opportunity for motivated individuals who value excellent customer service, a supportive work environment, and a comprehensive benefits package. It's particularly well-suited for those who are adaptable, enjoy working as part of a team, and are looking for a role with genuine perks and development potential.