Description Position: Assistant Store Manager (40 hours per week) Location: TUMI Bicester Village Store, New store opening Availability: Immediately Job Purpose Assists the store Manager in co-ordinating the daily operations of the store and the daily activities of the sales team. Offer Samsonite customers exceptional service by projecting a positive image of the Company at all times; in order to maximise sales and profitability. Maintain high standards in all spheres of responsibility within the branch. Contribute to the smooth running of the branch by supervising shop floor activities, administration, and staff development with Store Manager. Work jointly with the Manager to implement Company Policies and Procedures. Run the store in the absence of the Manager. Principal Accountabilities Customer Service/Sales Offer advice on, and demonstrations of, Samsonite products in a professional manner to ensure a friendly shopping experience. Introduce selling benefits and various features of merchandise range. Maximise sales through detailed product knowledge and add on sales. Be knowledgeable about store layout, products and stock availability. Deal with customers in a polite and efficient way, always considering their needs. Handle customer complaints tactfully, always adhering to company policy. Process transactions in an efficient and professional manner in line with Company Procedures. Process refunds and exchanges in line with company procedures. Be fully aware of Samsonite after sales service, supplier’s warranties and areas covered. Ensure staff are fully conversant with sales promotions, incentives and product brochures. Monitor the activities of staff on the shop floor to ensure customers receive exceptional service and all Company Procedures are followed. To be aware of all sales figures and targets on a daily/weekly/period basis. Communicate to the Area Manager and Store Manager any factors affecting local trading conditions. Enforce excellent customer service through the emphasis on client books, attention to customers and development of staff. Communicate to the Manager/Area Manager any factors affecting local trading conditions. Stock/ Merchandising Process deliveries and communicate any errors in an efficient manner. Ensure backup stock and stockrooms are kept in order. Be knowledgeable of all products (current and new) and selling benefits. Assist in layouts and maintenance of merchandising and internal displays. Design and arrange store displays to attract customers. Maintain a neat, clean and well-organised shopping environment. Implement correct usage of interior signage. Process returns in accordance with Company Procedures. Read and action relevant Head Office communication. Carry out stock counts as directed. Assist in the management and control of stock. Liase with Management and Head Office departments to ensure stock packages are maintained. Personnel Communicate in a professional manner with staff at all levels. Assist in the management and allocation of daily work, ensuring tasks are fully completed and high standards are maintained. Assist management in training, developing, organising and leading the Sales team. Develop and motivate the team through regular training, assessment and promotion. Assist in review/disciplinary meetings with Store Manager. To ensure welfare of all members of staff in relation to working conditions. Ensure any store problems are communicated to Store Manager. Communication Report and communicate information concerning personnel, merchandise and operations on a regular basis to Store Manager. Actively participate in monthly staff meetings for the purpose of discussing salesmanship principles, policy implementation changes, merchandise, etc, and to encourage an exchange of information and ideas. Report merchandise status – fast sellers, slow sellers, deficiencies, buying trends, etc. to the Store Manager on a regular basis. Offer this information during an Area Manager or Head Office visit. Operation /Administrative Duties Open and close the store following company procedures. Report any late openings to the Area Manager. Operate daily banking procedures ensuring all relevant administration is always up to date. Carry out stock and personnel administration and ensure a timely despatch. Handle telephone enquiries in a polite, helpful and efficient manner. Ensure all customer enquiries/orders are communicated to Head Office in accordance with Company Procedures. Complete regular audits as per Company Policy. Security Ensure the safe is locked and secure at all times. Ensure any store or till keys are secured at all times and alarms (where appropriate) are used in accordance with security directions. To ensure that any security issues are acted upon where possible and reported to Management. Work with Store Manager to identify and address any all issues with regard to external and internal losses. To remain vigilant when dealing with stock and monies, ensuring that Company Procedures are always adhered to. House Keeping Maintain high standards within the branch. Ensure that cleaning is carried out daily and look after all fixture fittings and stock Ensure all equipment is maintained to required standards. Attendance To report for work 5-10 minutes before the start of the shift in order to prepare for the scheduled start time. If absent or late, to contact the store Manager at the earliest opportunity to allow for any alternative arrangements to be made. To attend training courses as directed by Store Manager, arriving at the training venue in a timely manner. Appearance Maintain a well groomed, neat and tidy appearance at all times, in line with Company Dress Policy. Ensure that your team meets the dress code and appropriately represents the Company at all times. To ensure a copy of the dress policy is discussed and hand delivered to each employee Health & Safety Ensure that any accidents or potential dangers to staff or customers are acted upon where possible and reported to Management. Check First Aid Kit and fire extinguishers to ensure compliance with Health and Safety standards. Additional Responsibilities To perform duties of a similar nature as required and directed by Management. Qualifications Skills required Constant standing, bending, frequent lifting of luggage up to 15 kilos Computer literate Previous experience in retail Ability to work under pressure Team player and motivator Management skills Target driven Planning skills Brand sensibility Good command of English Flexibility