Sales Assistant/Driver

Review: Sales Assistant/Driver Opportunity at AkzoNobel (Dulux Decorating Centres)

AkzoNobel, a global leader in paints and coatings since 1792, offers a compelling opportunity for a Sales Assistant/Driver within its Dulux Decorating Centres network. This role, based in Bristol North, is ideal for individuals looking to blend customer service expertise with practical logistics, all within the framework of a highly reputable and employee-centric organization.

Advantages of this Opportunity:

• Dual Role for Diverse Experience: This position uniquely combines the responsibilities of a Sales Assistant with driving duties. Candidates will gain valuable experience in direct customer interaction, sales support, and retail operations, alongside essential logistical skills in route planning and delivery. This variety can significantly broaden one's professional skill set.
• Impactful Customer Engagement: As a key player in the store's success, you will be instrumental in delivering a "memorable customer experience." This involves providing a warm welcome, informed conversations, and personalised proposals to both professional decorators and DIY enthusiasts. For those who enjoy building rapport and making a tangible difference to customer satisfaction, this is a significant advantage.
• Strong Company Culture & Support:
  • Reputable Employer: AkzoNobel and its Dulux Decorating Centres are part of a global, long-established company trusted worldwide. The recognition as a Top 100 Employer with 'Investors in People-Gold' accreditation underscores a commitment to employee development and wellbeing.
  • Commitment to Training & Career Growth: The job description explicitly highlights "fostering your success with a remarkable benefits package and the training needed for career progression." You'll be encouraged to develop skills using internal tools and receive ongoing coaching and support, making it an excellent path for those eager to advance their careers.
  • Inclusive and Supportive Environment: AkzoNobel is "highly committed to ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace" and "advocates of a healthy work-life balance and mental wellbeing," even offering flexibility where possible. This creates a positive and supportive atmosphere for employees.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond a competitive salary, the role comes with a robust benefits package designed to support employees' holistic wellbeing. This includes:
  • 25 days holiday (excluding bank holidays)
  • Income protection and Employee Life Assurance
  • Staff discount at Dulux Decorator Centre stores and general product discounts
  • Company pension
  • An Employee Assistance Programme
  • A flexible benefits scheme with options like Gymflex, retail cards, and dental cover.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Balancing Dual Responsibilities: The role requires managing both in-store customer service and sales tasks, as well as out-of-store delivery duties. Strong organisational skills, the ability to multitask, and a proactive approach to planning delivery routes are essential.
• Working Hours and Flexibility: This is a full-time, 40-hour per week role. Candidates must be available for shifts between 7 am and 5 pm from Monday to Friday, and also be prepared to work rotational Saturday shifts (8 am - 12 pm) with time off in lieu. Flexibility and reliability regarding these hours are crucial.
• Essential Requirements: To be successful, candidates must have proven experience in a customer service or retail role and hold a valid driving licence. A collaborative spirit and the ability to remain calm under pressure are also highlighted as vital traits.
• Qualities that Stand Out: Beyond the basic requirements, candidates with excellent communication, customer service, and interpersonal skills, who are well-organised, detail-oriented, and genuinely enjoy ongoing coaching and support to advance their career, will particularly shine.
• Embrace Continuous Learning: Given the emphasis on training and development, a growth mindset and eagerness to learn new skills and adapt to new strategies will be highly valued.

This Sales Assistant/Driver position at Dulux Decorating Centres (AkzoNobel) represents more than just a job; it's an opportunity to join a global leader, develop a diverse skill set, and grow within a company that values its people. If you possess a passion for customer service, enjoy a dynamic work environment, and are looking for a role with clear pathways for progression, this could be an excellent next step in your career journey. AkzoNobel encourages applications from individuals with relevant experience, even if they don't meet every single listed criterion, underscoring their open and inclusive approach to talent acquisition.