Sales Assistant/Driver (Ipswich, GB)

Discover a career opportunity with AkzoNobel, a global leader in paints and coatings with a rich history dating back to 1792. This role offers the chance to be part of a dynamic team at Dulux Decorating Centres, the UK's largest paint and decorating merchant, renowned for its commitment to customer success and employee development. Recognized as a Top 100 Employer and holding an 'Investors in People-Gold' accreditation, AkzoNobel provides a supportive environment for professional growth.

Sales Assistant/Driver Opportunity

This position offers a competitive hourly rate of £12.66 for a 40-hour week, with typical working hours from 8 am to 5 pm or 7 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional Saturday work. AkzoNobel encourages applications from candidates with relevant experience, even if not all listed criteria are met, emphasizing a commitment to inclusivity and diverse talent.

What the Role Entails:

As a Sales Assistant/Driver, you will be instrumental in ensuring an outstanding customer experience for both professional decorators and DIY enthusiasts. Your responsibilities will include:

• Collaborating with instore colleagues and the UK Sales Team to achieve store success.
• Utilizing strong people skills to maximize sales and market share of AkzoNobel products and accessories.
• Providing a warm welcome, informed conversations, and personalized proposals to customers.
• Ensuring a consistent customer experience through the use of client service tools.
• Supporting the store's monthly customer contact plan.
• Maintaining shop floor merchandising and restocking.
• Loading delivery vehicles and planning efficient delivery routes for customer orders.
• Actively participating in engagement planning and monthly store meetings.
• Developing your own skills and encouraging colleagues to do the same through provided training tools.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Career Progression: AkzoNobel is committed to fostering employee growth with "great personal development opportunities" and roles offering "breadth, depth of scope and impact." The company actively encourages skill development and provides training tools.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary, candidates can expect a generous holiday allowance (25 days excluding bank holidays), income protection, staff discounts at Dulux Decorator Centre stores, product discounts, and a flexible benefits scheme that includes options like Gymflex, retail cards, and dental cover.
• Supportive Work Environment: The company prioritizes a "healthy work-life balance and mental wellbeing" and is open to discussing flexible working options. The emphasis on a "collaborative working environment where supporting colleagues is key" indicates a team-oriented culture.
• Brand Recognition: Working for AkzoNobel means being associated with world-class brands like Dulux, International, and Sikkens, which are trusted globally.
• Inclusive Culture: AkzoNobel is dedicated to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace where diversity is embraced, ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Driving License: A valid driving license is a requirement for this role.
• Flexibility: While the primary working days are Monday to Friday, occasional Saturday working is expected.
• Customer Focus: The role requires a strong aptitude for customer service, an engaging personality, and the ability to build rapport with a diverse range of customers.
• Organizational Skills: Being "well organized & with an eye for detail" is crucial for managing deliveries and maintaining the store.
• Resilience: The ability to remain "calm under pressure" is an important attribute for navigating a busy retail and delivery environment.

This Sales Assistant/Driver position at AkzoNobel presents a fantastic opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in the retail and decorating sector. With a strong emphasis on personal development, excellent benefits, and a supportive company culture, this role is ideal for those who are passionate about customer service, enjoy a hands-on approach, and are eager to contribute to the success of a leading global brand.