Introduction

Are you passionate about retail and service excellence? Are you confident to drive sales and build customer loyalty in order to ensure a competitive advantage for the brand? An exciting and challenging opportunity has become available for an Assistant Store Manager. The successful individual will report to the Store Manager.

Duties & Responsibilities

Job Purpose:

• To support the Store Manager in ensuring the efficient operation of the store and service excellence by driving sales and building customer loyalty in order to meet sales, profit and compliance targets, leading to a competitive advantage for the brand. 

Job Objectives:

• To ensure the achievement of the stores financial performance by driving and maximising sales through the execution of promotional activities and driving cross-selling, up-selling initiatives and superior customer service across the store team.
• To efficiently execute all operational activities of the store, including expenses, stock management, shrinkage, general housekeeping and administration.
• To successfully execute in-store visual merchandising, ensuring the in-store presentation and promotional standards are met and that the appearance of the store is in line with the brand image.
• To support the Store Manager in ensuring staff are motivated and directed to achieve their targets and performance goals and effectively managed in the absence of the store manager.
• To assist the Store Manager in maintaining the work schedule on a daily basis in line with the Group’s labour policy and the relevant labour model in order to ensure each department is fully and appropriately staffed.
• To execute customer service initiatives in store that results in a great customer experience, drives customer loyalty and achieves club card participation targets.
• To attend to all administrative responsibilities in an efficient manner, including ensuring weekly time and attendance and employee records are complete and submitted to HR.
• To facilitate the brand being the customer’s first choice health and beauty retailer by living and driving the company values.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Essential: Grade 12 (Maths 50% and English 50%)
• Essential: Relevant Retail/Business Management qualification (External applicants)
• Desirable: Degree in Relevant Retail/Business Management
• Minimum 1 years’ experience in an assistant store management role within a retail/FMCG store operations environment or successful completion the Clicks Trainee Store Management Programme
• Financial management experience (budgets, profit and loss statements, financial ratios, etc.)

Job Knowledge and Skills Required:

• Understanding and application of financial management principles
• Retail/FMCG background and understanding of merchandising and promotions principles
• Knowledge of stock, cost, risk and compliance management procedures 
• Knowledge of customer service excellence
• Knowledge of labour legislation and IR practices 
• Knowledge of people management
• Knowledge of competency based interviewing
• Numeracy skills
• Results and target driven
• Planning and organising skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Strong customer orientation
• Good communication skills
• Computer literacy

Essential Competencies

• Following instructions and procedures
• Planning and Organising
• Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations
• Working with people
• Analysing
• Leading and Supervising
• Entrepreneurial and Commercial Thinking
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks

Kindly note only applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted.​ 

Comprehensive Guide to Becoming an Effective Store Manager: Skills, Strategies, and Best Practices

Introduction

A store manager plays a key role in retail success. They keep daily operations running smoothly while motivating staff and satisfying customers. As retail changes, so does the job of a store manager. Technology speeds up processes, and customer needs shift constantly. Great store managers understand these changes and adapt. Their skills directly impact sales, employee happiness, and how customers see the store. Mastering store management brings not just better sales but also a happier team and loyal shoppers.

Understanding the Role of a Store Manager

Key Responsibilities of a Store Manager

A store manager wears many hats. They oversee daily store tasks, from opening to closing. Managing staff schedules ensures enough team members are on shift at all times. Meeting sales goals and key performance indicators (KPIs) is vital. Managers also keep the store looking attractive through visual merchandising. Handling customer complaints and questions is part of creating a positive shopping experience. Lastly, they keep records of inventory and work to prevent theft or loss, safeguarding profits.

Essential Skills for Success

Success begins with strong leadership. A store manager guides their team and pushes everyone to do their best. Good communication helps share expectations and resolve issues. Basic financial skills allow managers to read sales data and plan budgets. Problem-solving keeps the store running during tough times. Flexibility and stress management help handle busy days without losing composure.

Qualifications and Training

Most store managers have at least a high school diploma. Some have college degrees in business or retail management. Many start as sales associates and learn through on-the-job training. Certifications in customer service or safety add value. Continuous learning keeps skills sharp and allows managers to grow in their careers.

Hiring, Training, and Managing Staff

Recruitment Strategies for Retail Success

Finding the right team members is important. Look for candidates with a positive attitude and a desire to help customers. Use interviews that ask scenario-based questions to see how they handle real store challenges. Post jobs online and ask current employees for referrals. Good hiring choices create a team that works well and stays longer.

Training and Development Programs

New employees need a solid start. Orientation covers store policies, safety rules, and product basics. Ongoing training keeps staff updated on new products or procedures. Developing future leaders often involves leadership classes or mentorship. Well-trained staff are more confident and provide better service.

Building a High-Performing Team

Motivate your team through recognition and rewards. Set clear goals—everyone should know their tasks and targets. Regular reviews give feedback and track progress. Celebrate wins, like hitting sales goals or excellent customer reviews. Happy teams tend to stay longer and do better work.

Operational Excellence and Store Performance

Streamlining Daily Operations

Efficient inventory control means stock is always available and overstock is avoided. Automate stock replenishment so shelves stay full. Fast checkout processes prevent long lines. Safety standards ensure staff and shoppers stay healthy. Keep the store clean, safe, and organized for a smooth shopping trip.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Create a welcoming layout with clear signs and attractive displays. Personalize service by greeting customers and remembering repeat shoppers. Use technology like point-of-sale systems and loyalty programs to improve service speed and make shopping easier. Happy customers often return and recommend your store.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Regularly review sales data and customer feedback. These reveal what products are popular or not selling well. Adjust inventory or displays based on this info. Monitor KPIs like sales per employee, foot traffic, and conversion rates. Use tools like retail analytics software to stay informed and make smarter choices.

Marketing and Merchandising Strategies

Visual Merchandising Best Practices

Arrange products to catch the eye of shoppers. Place popular items at eye level. Use seasonal displays to excite customers about holiday or sale periods. Keep the store tidy and organized to make shopping easier and more pleasant.

Promoting Sales and Events

Organize in-store sales, discounts, or special events. Partner with local groups for community events. Use signage and displays to draw attention to promotions. Connect with your customers through online marketing, like social media posts or email offers.

Leveraging Digital Tools

Social media helps promote your store and engage with customers. Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to share updates and special offers. Send email campaigns to alert shoppers about sales or new products. Manage reviews online to build a positive reputation.