Job Description

Retail Manager - Aquatics

Aqua Group, Low Fulney, Spalding

Are you a commercially astute and customer-focused retail leader with a deep passion for the aquatic world? Do you possess proven experience in managing retail teams and driving sales within a dynamic environment? If you have a strong understanding of both marine and freshwater aquatic life and a track record of achieving results, Aqua Group has an exciting opportunity for you to lead our retail operations at our new facility in Spalding!

About the role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and knowledgeable Retail Manager to oversee all aspects of our aquatics retail shop. You will be responsible for leading and developing a team of aquatic specialists, maximising sales and profitability, ensuring exceptional customer experiences, and maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare and shop presentation. This role requires a proactive individual with strong leadership skills, commercial acumen, and a genuine enthusiasm for the aquatics industry. In addition to the aquatics side of the business this will also include the sale of premium pet products manufactured and sourced through our sister company, Lords & Labradors.

This is a full-time, permanent position working 48 hours per week, typically between 10am and 6pm. Flexibility is essential to meet the needs of the business and animal welfare, including regular weekend, bank holiday, and school holiday work, as well as on-call responsibilities for out-of-hours emergencies and occasional early or late shifts to accommodate business and animal care demands.

Responsibilities:

Provide strong leadership and direction to the retail team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Set and achieve sales targets, monitor performance, and implement strategies to maximize revenue and profitability. Ensure exceptional customer service is consistently delivered, acting as a point of escalation for complex customer inquiries and resolutions. Utilise your in-depth knowledge of marine and freshwater aquarium systems to guide and support the team in providing expert advice to customers. Oversee the maintenance of a healthy, visually appealing, and well-stocked aquatics section, ensuring adherence to animal welfare standards and company presentation guidelines. Manage inventory levels, implement effective stock control procedures, and liaise with suppliers to ensure optimal product availability. Ensure accurate and efficient processing of sales transactions and oversee the use of the point-of-sale system. Implement and monitor daily record-keeping procedures and ensure compliance with all company policies and protocols, including health and safety regulations. Recruit, train, coach, and develop retail staff to enhance their product knowledge, customer service skills, and sales performance. Analyse sales data and customer feedback to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement. Develop and implement promotional activities and visual merchandising strategies to drive footfall and sales. Ensure the team are competent in providing basic veterinary care and treatments to aquatic livestock, adhering to established protocols. Oversee the maintenance of life support systems, ensuring their optimal functionality and the well-being of the livestock. Handle customer inquiries and complaints effectively and professionally, both in person and via phone. Stay up to date with the latest products, trends, and best practices in the aquatics industry and communicate this knowledge to the team. Contribute to the overall strategic planning and development of the retail operations.

Requirements:

Proven and significant experience in a retail management role, ideally within the pet or aquatics industry. A comprehensive understanding of both marine and freshwater aquarium systems, including fish species, invertebrates, plants, and their care requirements. Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with a passion for developing and motivating teams. Strong commercial acumen with a proven track record of achieving sales targets and managing budgets. Excellent customer service skills with a commitment to exceeding customer expectations. Demonstrated ability to handle live animals responsibly and ensure high standards of animal welfare. Strong organisational and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Flexibility to work weekends and occasional evenings, as required by the needs of the business. A proactive and enthusiastic approach to continuous learning and development for yourself and your team.

Desirable (but not essential):

Formal qualifications or certifications related to animal care, marine biology, or retail management. Experience with inventory management systems and stock control procedures. Experience in visual merchandising and implementing promotional campaigns. Familiarity with health and safety regulations within a retail environment. Full clean UK driving license and personal vehicle.

Benefits:

Competitive salary, 28,000 - 40,000 per annum (commensurate with experience) 28 days holiday including substitute bank holidays Significant opportunities for training and professional development A supportive and passionate work environment The opportunity to lead a team and share your expertise in the aquatics industry!

To Apply:

If you are a results-oriented and passionate retail leader with a deep interest in aquatics, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your CV and a compelling cover letter outlining your relevant management experience and why you are the ideal candidate to lead our retail aquatics team to rhys@woldsanimalgroup.co.uk

We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 28,000.00-40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension On-site parking
Experience:

Aquatics Retail: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person