Hospitality, Supermarket Assistant reference: R-186937

Partner - Service Counters at Waitrose & Partners: An Opportunity for Food Enthusiasts

This role presents a compelling opportunity for individuals passionate about food and dedicated to exceptional customer service. As a Partner on the service counters at Waitrose & Partners, you'll be at the forefront of bringing the brand's ethos to life: "passionate Partners serving food lovers." This position is ideal for those looking to make a tangible difference in customer experience, build lasting relationships, and contribute to a respected retail brand.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Passion for Food: This role is designed for those who genuinely love food. You'll have the chance to share your knowledge, recommend products, and even suggest recipes, turning your enthusiasm into a rewarding career.
• Ethical Sourcing Emphasis: A significant advantage is the opportunity to champion and explain the ethical sourcing of products. This aligns with growing consumer demand for transparency and responsible consumption, offering a sense of purpose to your work.
• Customer Relationship Building: The emphasis on building "lasting relationships" and earning "trust and loyalty" is a key benefit. This role fosters a personalized customer interaction style, allowing you to significantly impact customer perception and retention for the Waitrose brand.
• Ownership and Shared Success: As part of the John Lewis Partnership, you'll be a Partner and co-owner. This unique ownership model means you share in the rewards and successes of the business, fostering a strong sense of belonging and collective responsibility.
• Career Development and Learning: Continuous learning is encouraged, with an expectation to stay updated on new products and Waitrose's food values, such as animal welfare. This supports ongoing professional growth and deepens your expertise in the food sector.
• Nights Premium: For those working overnight shifts (between 22:00 - 06:00) starting from October 5th, a Night Premium of £3.50 per hour is an attractive financial incentive, enhancing overall earnings.
• Flexible Working: The Partnership actively supports flexible working arrangements, including flexible or compressed hours, job sharing, and shorter contract options. This commitment to work-life balance is a significant draw for candidates seeking adaptable employment.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Early Morning Shifts: The advertised hours involve early morning shifts, starting at 04:00. Candidates must be prepared for and comfortable with this schedule, as it is a core component of the role's operational requirements.
• Responsibility for Presentation and Hygiene: You will be responsible for maintaining the highest standards of presentation and hygiene at your dedicated food counter. This requires meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to food safety protocols.
• Stock Management and Waste Reduction: Effective stock management is crucial to ensure product availability and minimize food wastage. This involves proactive monitoring and efficient handling of goods.
• Team Collaboration: While customer interaction is key, supporting the wider shop team with general shopkeeping tasks is also part of the role. A collaborative and flexible attitude is therefore essential.
• Potential for Vetting: Be aware that some roles may be subject to pre-employment vetting, which could include DBS checks. While not all roles require this, it's a possibility to consider and be prepared for during the recruitment process.
• Temporary Contract: The current advertisement specifies a temporary contract. Candidates seeking long-term, permanent positions should clarify the potential for extension or permanent opportunities during the application process.

This Partner role at Waitrose & Partners offers a unique blend of customer engagement, food expertise, and the distinct advantages of an employee-owned business. For individuals who are passionate about food, value ethical practices, and thrive in a customer-focused environment, this is an excellent opportunity to grow and contribute to a beloved brand.