Sales Assistant/Driver (Huddersfield, GB)

Unlocking Opportunity: A Review of the Sales Assistant/Driver Role at AkzoNobel's Dulux Decorating Centres

AkzoNobel, a global leader in paints and coatings with a legacy spanning over two centuries, offers a compelling opportunity for a Sales Assistant/Driver within its Dulux Decorating Centres. This role, based in Huddersfield, is ideal for individuals looking to blend dynamic customer engagement with practical logistical responsibilities, all within a highly regarded, supportive organization. This review aims to highlight the core advantages and key considerations for prospective candidates, guiding you on your career journey.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Strong Foundation with a Global Leader: You'll be joining AkzoNobel, a company renowned for its innovative products and world-class brands like Dulux and International. This offers stability and a platform for learning from industry best practices. Dulux Decorating Centres, as the UK's largest paint and decorating merchant, provides a strong retail environment.
• Comprehensive Growth and Development: AkzoNobel is committed to fostering employee success. Recognized as a Top 100 Employer with 'Investors in People-Gold' accreditation, the company actively promotes career progression through training tools, ongoing coaching, and support. This role specifically encourages skill development and active participation in store planning, offering breadth and depth of experience.
• Rewarding Compensation and Benefits: The position offers a competitive salary alongside a lucrative sales-based bonus, directly linking your efforts to your earning potential. Beyond this, a robust benefits package includes:
  • 25 days holiday (excluding bank holidays)
  • Company pension and employee life assurance
  • Income protection and an Employee Assistance Programme
  • Significant staff and product discounts at Dulux Decorator Centres
  • A flexible benefits scheme featuring options like Gymflex, retail cards, and dental cover, allowing you to tailor benefits to your lifestyle.
• Dynamic and Diverse Role: This isn't just a sales role or just a driving role—it's both! You'll be a vital part of the store's success, engaging with a diverse customer base (professionals and DIY enthusiasts), maximizing sales, and ensuring timely deliveries. This blend ensures variety in your day-to-day tasks and broadens your skillset.
• Supportive and Inclusive Culture: AkzoNobel champions a healthy work-life balance and mental well-being, openly considering flexible working options for its roles. The company is deeply committed to an inclusive and respectful workplace, embracing diversity and actively working to mitigate unconscious bias in its hiring processes.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Part-Time Commitment and Schedule: This is a part-time role of 30 hours per week. Candidates must be available for shifts between 7 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday, and also be prepared for rotational Saturday shifts (8 am to 4 pm) with time off in lieu. Ensure this schedule aligns with your personal commitments and lifestyle.
• Dual Responsibility Requires Adaptability: The role demands a balance between excellent customer service and efficient logistical operations. You'll need to seamlessly switch between engaging with customers on the shop floor and planning/executing delivery routes. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work calmly under pressure are essential.
• Customer-Centric Focus: A genuine enjoyment of interacting with people and providing a memorable customer experience is paramount. Your "people skills" will be key to maximizing sales and market share.
• Driving is Essential: A valid driving license is a mandatory requirement, as you will be responsible for customer deliveries to homes and businesses.
• Collaborative Environment: The role emphasizes teamwork and supporting colleagues. If you thrive in a collaborative setting where contributing to a shared goal is key, this environment will suit you well.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is particularly well-suited for individuals with proven customer service or retail experience who also possess a valid driving license. If you are organized, enjoy interacting with people, are calm under pressure, and are eager to develop your skills within a leading, supportive company, AkzoNobel encourages you to apply. Even if you don't meet every single criterion, relevant experience and enthusiasm are highly valued.

The Sales Assistant/Driver role at Dulux Decorating Centres is more than just a job; it's a chance to grow your career within a respected global organization that values its people and offers tangible pathways for development. If you're ready to "paint the future together," explore this opportunity.