Customer Team Member reference: 1061731

This review provides an overview of the Customer Team Member position at Co-op, focusing on the advantages and key considerations for potential candidates looking to advance their careers.

Opportunity Overview

Co-op is seeking dedicated Customer Team Members to join their Farnborough store, offering a part-time permanent contract of 12 hours per week with the potential for regular overtime. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about customer service and contributing to their local community. The role involves a variety of responsibilities, including direct customer interaction, in-store bakery duties, restocking, and maintaining store standards.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond the competitive hourly rate of £12.60, Co-op offers an impressive array of benefits designed to support employee wellbeing. This includes a generous 31 days of holiday (pro-rata for part-time), a pension scheme with up to 10% employer contributions, and access to virtual healthcare services for the entire family.
• Employee Discount: A significant perk is the 30% discount on all Co-op products, along with 10% discounts on other brands, offering substantial savings.
• Career Development and Support: Co-op is committed to supporting its colleagues. This role includes full, paid training, with a focus on personal development and career progression. The company emphasizes a supportive work environment, offering resources for physical, mental, and financial wellbeing, as well as market-leading policies for life events.
• Work-Life Balance and Flexibility: While the role requires early morning starts (5:45 am) and weekend work, discussions about the specific working pattern will take place at the interview stage. Rotas are shared three weeks in advance and are accessible via mobile, promoting better planning.
• Financial Wellbeing: The "Stream" app allows employees to access a percentage of their earned pay before payday, providing valuable financial flexibility.
• Community Focus: Co-op's commitment to community engagement offers a chance for employees to get involved in local activities and events, fostering a sense of purpose.
• Inclusive Workplace: Co-op actively promotes diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from all backgrounds and offering support for individuals with disabilities.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Early Starts and Weekend Availability: The role requires flexibility, particularly with early morning shifts (starting at 5:45 am) and weekend work. Candidates should assess if this aligns with their personal schedule and preferences.
• Varied Responsibilities: This position is multifaceted, encompassing customer service at the till and on the shop floor, bakery duties, stock management, and maintaining store cleanliness. A willingness to undertake a range of tasks is essential.
• Application Process: The application involves completing two online assessments, estimated to take around 20 minutes. While no CV is strictly required for initial application via mobile, candidates should be prepared for these assessments.
• Age Requirement: Applicants must be aged 18 or over due to the potential for working before 6 am or after 10 pm, or other business-related needs.
• Commitment to Co-op Values: Success in this role will depend on a genuine care for customer needs, strong interpersonal skills, and a positive, problem-solving attitude, aligning with Co-op's long-standing commitment to fairness and community.

The Customer Team Member role at Co-op offers a stable, permanent part-time opportunity with excellent benefits and a supportive environment. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who value community, seek work-life balance with advance notice of schedules, and are eager to develop their skills within a reputable organisation. Candidates should be prepared for the early starts and diverse responsibilities to make the most of this engaging opportunity.