Retail Area Manager (Fixed-Term Contract)

Location: West Dorset

Full-time (37.5 hours) or Part-time (30 hours)

£30,000 per annum (pro rata for part-time)

2-year fixed term contract (potential to extend)

Are you an experienced retail leader looking for your next challenge in a rewarding and purpose-driven environment? We are seeking a Retail Area Manager to lead and develop a growing network of 3 charity shops, driving income and innovation across our retail operations.

This role is perfect for a Store Manager looking to step up or a current Area Manager.

About the Role

This is a new and hands-on leadership opportunity to shape and deliver our retail strategy, with a focus on income generation, operational excellence, and future expansion. You'll be responsible for overseeing shop operations, managing staff, and identifying opportunities for growth - including new shop locations and online income streams.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and deliver the retail strategy across existing and future retail sites
Manage budgets, performance, and operations for a network of charity shops
Line manage and support shop managers and volunteers, including recruitment and training
Drive income through strong commercial performance, visual merchandising and cost control
Identify new shop locations and develop business cases for expansion
Ensure compliance with health & safety and organisational policies
Explore additional revenue streams including e-commerce and social media engagement
Represent the organisation in meetings and local events as required

Finance & Performance

Set shop targets and monitor performance
Analyse sales trends and implement data-driven improvements
Coordinate with internal teams on payroll, utilities, and financial reporting

People Management

Lead and develop shop teams, ensuring strong communication and engagement
Maintain staffing levels and oversee rota planning
Implement fair and consistent recruitment, appraisal and disciplinary processes
Foster a positive team culture across all site

Business Development

Identify and assess new locations for potential retail outlets
Oversee the planning, costing, and launch of new shops
Expand retail beyond traditional outlets, including digital sales platforms

What We're Looking For

Essential:

Minimum 2 years of senior retail management experience
Proven track record in driving commercial results
Strong leadership, people development and communication skills
Budget management and analytical capabilities
Knowledge of retail operations and customer service excellence
Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)Desirable:

Experience in charity retail and volunteer management
Knowledge of health & safety compliance and HR practices
Understanding of Gift Aid and fundraising initiatives
Visual merchandising expertise
Experience in opening and fitting out new shop premises

Additional Requirements

Full UK driving licence and access to a car
Willingness to travel across the region
Flexible, proactive and adaptable attitude
Passion for community engagement and charitable work

Why Join Us?

This is a fantastic opportunity to take the lead in a vital retail function, with the scope to influence long-term growth and help support a meaningful cause. You'll join a supportive team that values innovation, collaboration and impact.

To Apply

If you're a driven and commercially minded retail professional looking to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you.

By applying for this role, you are consenting for us to hold and process your data in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulations.

C2 Recruitment is a Specialist Retail Recruitment Consultancy recruiting across the UK and Internationally. We Specialise in Buying & Merchandising and Ecommerce | Charity & Non Profit | Design, Technical, Wholesale & Production | Finance | HR & Talent | H&S & Compliance | Hospitality & Leisure | Marketing, Digital & Technology | Property & Centre Management | Retail, Trade and Luxury Operations | Senior Appointments & Executive | Sales & FMCG | Supply Chain & Logistics & Warehouse