Review: Sales Assistant/Driver at AkzoNobel (Dulux Decorating Centres) – Loughborough
AkzoNobel, a global leader in paints and coatings, presents an engaging part-time opportunity for a Sales Assistant/Driver at their Dulux Decorating Centre in Loughborough. This role offers a unique blend of customer service excellence, sales support, and essential logistics, making it ideal for individuals looking to grow their career within a highly reputable and forward-thinking organization.
Dulux Decorating Centres, a key part of the AkzoNobel family, stands as the UK’s largest paint and decorating merchant, boasting over 240 nationwide stores. Recognized as a Top 100 Employer with "Investors in People-Gold" accreditation, this company is committed to fostering employee success through comprehensive training and a remarkable benefits package.
Advantages for Potential Candidates:
- Renowned Employer & Brand Power: Join a company with a rich heritage since 1792, supplying world-class brands like Dulux, International, Sikkens, and Interpon. AkzoNobel's global presence and dedication to sustainable solutions provide a stable and impactful environment.
- Commitment to Career Development: AkzoNobel explicitly highlights "great personal development opportunities" and roles with "breadth, depth of scope and impact." With ongoing coaching, support, and access to training tools, this role is a stepping stone for skill advancement and career progression.
- Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Candidates will receive a competitive rate of £12.66 per hour plus a sales-based bonus. The comprehensive benefits package includes 25 days holiday (excluding bank holidays), income protection, staff and product discounts, a company pension, and a flexible benefits scheme (Gymflex, retail card, dental cover).
- Inclusive & Supportive Culture: AkzoNobel champions a healthy work-life balance and mental wellbeing, actively considering flexible working options. Their strong commitment to an inclusive, respectful workplace and efforts to mitigate unconscious bias in hiring underscore a progressive and supportive environment.
- Encouragement to Apply: A significant advantage is the explicit invitation for candidates to apply even if they don't meet all listed criteria, provided they have relevant experience and expertise. This demonstrates an open-minded and inclusive approach to talent acquisition.
- Dynamic Dual Role: This position combines direct customer interaction and sales with essential driving and logistical responsibilities, offering a varied and engaging work experience.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Part-Time Commitment: This is a 16-hour per week role. Candidates should assess if this aligns with their desired work-life balance and financial needs.
- Flexible Shift Pattern: While predominantly Thursdays and Fridays, availability for shifts between 7 am and 5 pm on weekdays, plus occasional Saturday shifts (8 am-4 pm) with time off in lieu, is required. Flexibility and good time management are crucial.
- Dual Responsibilities: The role demands proficiency in both sales/customer service and driving/logistics. Candidates must be comfortable switching between welcoming customers, advising on products, and then loading a van and planning delivery routes.
- Customer-Centric Focus: A genuine enjoyment of engaging with customers, providing informed conversations, and delivering a personalised experience is paramount. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
- Physical Demands: Responsibilities include merchandising, restocking, and loading the van, which implies a degree of physical activity.
- Location Specific: The role is based at the Loughborough (LE11 5XS) Dulux Decorating Centre, so local candidates or those willing to commute will find this most suitable.
Who Should Consider This Opportunity?
This role is ideal for individuals with proven customer service or retail experience and a valid driving licence, who are seeking a part-time position within a supportive and progressive company. If you thrive in a collaborative environment, possess excellent communication and organisational skills, and are eager to develop your career in sales and logistics with a leading brand, this Sales Assistant/Driver role at AkzoNobel's Dulux Decorating Centre in Loughborough could be your next exciting step.
AkzoNobel is actively seeking motivated individuals to "paint the future together" and encourages you to explore how your skills and aspirations align with this rewarding opportunity.