Team Manager reference: R-187184

Opportunity Review: Team Manager, Waitrose (Colchester)

This Team Manager role within a Waitrose shop presents a compelling opportunity for experienced retail leaders looking to make a significant impact within a unique, employee-owned business. The position offers a chance to blend strong operational oversight with inspirational people leadership, all while upholding the esteemed Waitrose brand reputation for quality and customer service.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Leadership: You'll be at the forefront of shop operations, directly influencing your team's performance and shaping the customer experience. This is a hands-on role where your leadership truly makes a difference.
• Employee Ownership: As part of the John Lewis Partnership, you'll become a Partner, sharing in the responsibilities and rewards of the UK's largest employee-owned business. This fosters a unique culture of shared purpose and mutual respect.
• Customer-Centric Focus: The role emphasizes delivering "outstanding Partner-led, customer service that is distinctively Waitrose." This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about creating memorable experiences for food lovers and building lasting customer loyalty.
• Career Development: The inclusive culture and emphasis on growth ("Growing ourselves individually, and as a collective") suggest a supportive environment for professional development. The opportunity to manage a team, drive sales, and contribute to business strategy provides a strong foundation for career advancement.
• Night Premium Opportunity: For those joining from October 5th, there's an attractive Night Premium of £4.50 per hour for time worked between 22:00 and 06:00, offering an additional financial incentive for late-night operations.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Fast-Paced Environment: Be prepared for a dynamic and demanding role. The description highlights that "It's fast paced and at times you'll oversee the entire day-to-day operation of the shop." Resilience and adaptability are crucial.
• People Management Prowess: The core of this role involves strong people management skills. You'll be responsible for leading, inspiring, and managing various people-related tasks, including holidays and absences. Creating a "supportive culture of care, belonging, pace and productivity" will be paramount.
• Commercial Acumen: Success hinges on your ability to leverage commercial skills to "maximise sales and profit while minimising wastage." A keen understanding of retail operations and financial management is essential.
• Flexibility in Hours: The role requires flexibility, including "early starts, late finishes, evenings and weekends." While work-life balance is supported, candidates should be comfortable with varied working patterns.
• Pre-Employment Vetting: Be aware that some roles may be subject to pre-employment vetting, which could include DBS checks and financial probity checks. Prompt completion of any required documents is encouraged.
• Desirable Skills: While not strictly essential, experience with disciplinary and grievance processes, regulatory compliance, holding a Personal Licence, and Food Hygiene Level 3 can provide a distinct advantage.

In summary, this Team Manager position at Waitrose offers a rewarding career path for driven individuals who are passionate about retail, excel at leading teams, and are eager to contribute to a values-driven, employee-owned organisation. If you thrive in a busy environment and are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, this role could be an excellent step in your career journey.