<div>There is nothing quite like the buzz of opening a brand-new store from scratch. We’re arriving in Bishop Auckland with a fantastic, modern new site, and we’re looking for a down-to-earth Assistant Manager to help us get it off the ground. Working hand-in-hand with the Store Manager, you’ll help recruit and shape a brand-new team, manage the day-to-day operations, and make sure we’re delivering the honest, helpful service our customers love from day one. It’s a brilliant opportunity to take ownership of a fresh space and build a team culture to be proud of. Our Store Assistant Managers are at the heart of our stores. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role where no two days are the same. You’ll lead from the front, support your team, and keep everything running smoothly. All while delivering a brilliant experience for our customers.<br><br></div><div>If you’re looking for a role where you can grow, take ownership and progress your career this could be the opportunity for you.<br><br></div><div><strong>With plans to expand from 230 to 300 stores by 2030, we’re investing in our future, creating more opportunities for our colleagues to progress.<br><br></strong></div><div><strong>The role<br><br></strong></div><div>As a Store Assistant Manager, you’re the go-to person on shift. One moment you might be helping a customer design their dream kitchen or bathroom, the next you’re supporting a delivery, or solving a customer issue. It’s a role that keeps you moving, thinking and leading all day.<br><br></div><div>You’ll play a key part across all areas of the store, including:</div><div><ul><li><strong>Supporting the Store Managers&nbsp;</strong></li><li><strong>Leading the store </strong>in the Store Manager’s absence</li><li><strong>Delivering results</strong> through sales and exceptional service</li><li><strong>Inspiring and supporting colleagues</strong> to deliver great customer service</li><li><strong>Ensuring the store safety, compliance and operational excellence for everyone</strong></li><li><strong>Managing day-to-day operations</strong></li></ul></div><div>At Wickes, we operate across four key areas of the store:<br><br></div><div><ul><li>Helping customers find what they need <strong>(self-serve)</strong></li><li>Supporting larger home projects from design to installation<strong> (showroom)</strong></li><li>Delivering great service through our sales teams <strong>(assisted selling)</strong></li><li>Making sure orders are fulfilled smoothly <strong>(order fulfilment)</strong></li></ul></div><div>It’s a varied, hands-on role where you’ll build real leadership experience and learn every part of our business.<br><br></div><div><strong>About you</strong></div><div><ul><li>You’ll thrive in this role if you enjoy variety and a fast-paced environment. This is a role for someone who’s comfortable taking ownership. We’re looking for someone who:</li><li>Has experience in a customer-facing environment</li><li>Can lead and motivate a team, even during busy or challenging days</li><li>Is organised, adaptable and solutions-focused</li><li>Brings strong communication and people skills</li><li>Takes pride in delivering a great customer experience</li></ul></div><div>Experience in retail, trade, or a similar environment is essential. But it’s only as important as your behaviour and mindset.&nbsp;<br><br></div><div><strong>What you’ll bring</strong></div><div><ul><li>A hands-on approach and willingness to get stuck in across all areas of the store</li><li>Problem-solving skills and resilience in a fast-moving environment</li><li>The ability to balance customer needs, team support and operational priorities</li><li>Confidence using systems and technology in day-to-day tasks</li><li>A full UK driving licence and flexibility to support nearby stores when needed</li></ul></div><div><strong>What we offer<br><br></strong></div><div><ul><li>We’ll support you to grow and develop your leadership skills, with real opportunities to progress.</li><li>Up to 7.5% annual bonus + up to £300 per month gainshare bonus</li><li>6% pension contribution matched</li><li>Up to 35 days’ holiday including bank holidays</li><li>20% colleague discount</li><li>Save-as-you-earn scheme</li><li>Life assurance</li><li>Access to Digital GP and wellbeing support</li><li>Discounts and cashback across a wide range of retailers</li></ul></div><div>And you’ll be part of a supportive, down-to-earth culture where people genuinely look out for each other.<br><br></div><div><strong>A few things to know</strong></div><div><ul><li>This is a hands-on role.</li><li>You may occasionally support nearby stores, so some flexibility and travel is needed.</li><li>Flexible working can be discussed as part of your application.</li></ul></div><div><strong>What to do next<br><br></strong></div><div>If you’re ready to take the next step in your retail career, build leadership experience and be part of a team that makes a real difference to customers’ homes, we'd love to hear from you.</div><div><br></div><div>We aim to create an inclusive workplace with colleagues’ wellbeing at the heart of everything we do.</div><div><br></div><div>We’re a Disability Confident Employer and committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from disabled people and are committed to providing an accessible recruitment process and workplace for everyone. If you require any support or reasonable adjustments, please let us know <a href="http://https//www.wickescareers.co.uk/reasonable-adjustments" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</div><div><br></div><div><strong>Apply now!</strong></div><div><br></div>