Hospitality, Supermarket Assistant reference: R-185129

Job Review: Partner, Service Counters (Waitrose & Partners)

Are you a food enthusiast with a passion for delivering exceptional customer service? The role of Partner on the service counters at Waitrose & Partners in Wells presents a compelling opportunity for individuals looking to blend their love for food with a fulfilling career in a unique employee-owned business.

This position offers more than just a job; it's a chance to be a brand ambassador, embodying Waitrose's ethos of "passionate Partners serving food lovers." If you thrive on engaging with customers, sharing your culinary knowledge, and contributing to a positive shopping experience, this role could be an excellent fit for your career path.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Be a Food Advocate: This role is tailor-made for those who genuinely love food. You'll have the opportunity to showcase your knowledge, recommend delicious products, and even suggest recipes, making each customer interaction a mini culinary consultation.
• Champion Ethical Sourcing: A significant advantage of this position is the pride you'll derive from working with ethically sourced food. You'll be part of an organization that values transparency and responsible practices, allowing you to feel good about the products you are serving.
• Build Lasting Customer Relationships: The emphasis on building trust and loyalty with customers means you'll be instrumental in creating repeat business. Your enthusiasm and friendliness will directly contribute to the positive impression of the Waitrose brand, offering a rewarding sense of customer connection.
• Join an Employee-Owned Business: As a Partner in the John Lewis Partnership, you are a co-owner. This unique model offers shared responsibility, rewards, and a genuine sense of belonging. You'll have a voice in the business and share in its successes, fostering a deeply engaging work environment.
• Career Growth and Development: While the initial role focuses on service counters, the experience gained in customer interaction, product knowledge, and operational standards provides a strong foundation for further opportunities within the wider Partnership.
• Attractive Benefits: Beyond the contractual pay, candidates starting from October 5th can benefit from a Night Premium of £3.50 per hour for any hours worked between 22:00 and 06:00, when enrolled in the Enhanced Hours Premium arrangements.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Responsibility and Standards: You will be entrusted with the daily care of your food counter, ensuring impeccable presentation and stringent hygiene standards. This requires a meticulous approach and a commitment to food safety protocols, including a focus on reducing food wastage.
• Product Knowledge and Adaptability: Maintaining an up-to-date understanding of new products and Waitrose's core food values, such as animal welfare, is crucial. A flexible approach is also valued, as you may be asked to support the wider shop team with general tasks.
• Hours of Work: The role involves various part-time hours (approximately 30 hours per week) across seven days, including weekends, between 07:00 and 19:30. Candidates should be prepared for this flexible scheduling.
• Pre-Employment Vetting: Be aware that some roles may be subject to pre-employment vetting, which could include DBS checks and financial probity checks. Prompt completion of any required vetting documents will help avoid delays in the recruitment process.
• Customer-Centricity: The success of this role hinges on your ability to connect with customers. While experience in a customer-facing role is desirable, strong communication skills are essential. If you are naturally outgoing and enjoy assisting others, this will be a significant asset.

In summary, this Partner role at Waitrose & Partners offers a fantastic platform for individuals passionate about food and customer service to grow within a supportive and unique employee-owned organization. It's an opportunity to make a tangible difference, build a rewarding career, and contribute to a brand known for its quality and commitment.