Sales Assistant/Driver (Sleaford, GB)

Unveiling Your Next Career Move: Sales Assistant/Driver at Dulux Decorating Centres (AkzoNobel)

Are you looking for a dynamic part-time opportunity that blends customer service, sales, and logistics, all within a globally recognized company? This review dives into the Sales Assistant/Driver role at Dulux Decorating Centres, part of the AkzoNobel family, providing insights to help potential candidates understand the exciting prospects and key considerations for their career path.

About the Company: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation

Working at Dulux Decorating Centres means becoming part of AkzoNobel, a company with a rich history dating back to 1792. As a world-leading supplier of innovative paints and coatings, AkzoNobel boasts an impressive portfolio of trusted brands like Dulux, International, Sikkens, and Interpon. Operating in over 150 countries, they are dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and fostering a better tomorrow.

Dulux Decorating Centres, with over 240 stores nationwide, stands as the UK’s largest paint and decorating merchant. Their commitment to employee success is evident through their recognition as a Top 100 Employer and their prestigious ‘Investors in People-Gold’ accreditation. This signifies a workplace that genuinely values its people, offering remarkable benefits and structured training for career progression. If you seek an employer committed to your growth and well-being, this is a strong indicator.

The Opportunity: Sales Assistant/Driver

This part-time role, based in Sleaford, offers a compelling blend of responsibilities at £12.66 per hour plus a sales-based bonus. As a Sales Assistant/Driver, you will play a pivotal role in the store's success, delivering an exceptional customer experience to both decorating professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Your responsibilities are diverse, ranging from fostering warm customer welcomes and informed conversations to supporting sales maximization, planning delivery routes, and executing customer deliveries to homes and businesses.

AkzoNobel has thoughtfully structured this opportunity as a 24-hour per week role, with shifts typically falling between 7 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday, including some rotational Saturday shifts (8 am to 4 pm) with time off in lieu. Crucially, the company encourages applications from individuals with relevant experience and expertise, even if they don't meet every single listed criterion, highlighting an inclusive approach to talent acquisition.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Robust Career Development: The job description explicitly mentions "great personal development opportunities" and "training needed for career progression." You'll be encouraged to develop your skills through provided training tools and benefit from ongoing coaching and support. This role is a stepping stone for those looking to build a career in retail, sales, or logistics within a large organization.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: AkzoNobel offers an attractive suite of benefits including 25 days holiday (excluding bank holidays), competitive salary (with bonus potential), company pension, income protection, employee life assurance, and an Employee Assistance Programme. Furthermore, staff and product discounts, alongside a flexible benefits scheme (e.g., Gymflex, retail cards, dental cover), significantly enhance the overall compensation package.
• Supportive & Inclusive Culture: With an ‘Investors in People-Gold’ accreditation, the company prioritizes a collaborative environment where supporting colleagues is key. They are strong advocates for a healthy work-life balance and mental wellbeing, even considering flexible working options for all roles. AkzoNobel is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring an inclusive workplace where all employees can thrive.
• Impactful Dual Role: This position offers the unique advantage of combining customer-facing sales with practical logistics. If you enjoy variety, interacting with people, and being on the move, this blend of responsibilities will keep your work engaging and challenging.
• Prestigious Company Affiliation: Joining AkzoNobel means becoming part of a global leader with a strong reputation for innovation and quality. This association can be a significant asset to your professional profile.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Part-Time Hours & Flexibility: While the 24-hour part-time structure offers work-life balance, candidates should ensure the specified shift patterns (Mon-Fri between 7 am-5 pm, rotational Saturdays 8 am-4 pm) align with their personal commitments and lifestyle. The mention of flexible working options is positive, but specific arrangements would need discussion.
• Driving Requirement: A valid driving license is essential, as the role includes customer deliveries. Candidates must be comfortable with route planning and physically capable of loading and unloading a van.
• Customer-Centric & Sales-Oriented: The role requires strong communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills. A genuine enjoyment of interacting with people, helping them, and contributing to sales objectives is crucial for success and job satisfaction.
• Collaborative Environment: The company emphasizes a collaborative working environment. Candidates who thrive in team-oriented settings and enjoy supporting colleagues will find this a suitable match.

Who Should Apply?

This role is ideal for individuals with proven customer service or retail experience, a valid driving license, and a proactive, organized approach. If you are a calm, collaborative team player who enjoys ongoing coaching and wants to grow within a respected, employee-focused global company, then this Sales Assistant/Driver position at Dulux Decorating Centres could be an excellent next step in your career. It’s an opportunity to contribute directly to store success while benefiting from a supportive culture and comprehensive development opportunities.

Don't miss the chance to paint the future together with AkzoNobel.