Job Description

Overview of the role:

Do you have the skills of a great operational leader? And the experience of retail management? And the enthusiasm to be part of a dynamic organic rural business?

We're looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Organic Shop Manager to lead shop operations and ensure our customers receive top-quality products and service. This position sits alongside a small team of managers who look after the different aspects of the business - working as a Management Team, this role will directly line manage the shop team, and support the wider business and staff team via our Management Team 'duty'/relief management set-up across the management team.

About Us

Pillars of Hercules is a pioneering, homely, organic small business, located in rural Fife (just off the A912 between Falkland and Strathmiglo) seeking to optimise local food, minimise waste and be active in our wee bit in the community and the wider environment. Our managers are great communicators, able to bring ideas to the table, and have an uncanny ability to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty alongside the team as needed.

The shop sells a huge range of products - everything from red lentils and porridge oats to handwoven baskets and handmade soaps, from dried mango to fresh fruit, veg and salads, vegan chocolates, wines, local apple juice and refillable toiletries - all in a very small space. Our shop manager will lead the way on what we stock, and how our shop runs, to evolve our business and meet our ever-expanding and evolving customer and business needs. Our perfect candidate will be as sharp on assessing business information as they are on knowing their organic onions!

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

To oversee all aspects of shop operations & management, providing leadership to the shop team, setting & maintaining service standards, & optimising the shop business model for the current and evolving customer base

CORE COMPETENCY AREAS:

You will set and lead the shop service standards, guiding and supporting the shop team to deliver exceptional customer service

You will set, champion and ensure standards appropriate to the safe and efficient operation of the shop

You will be the manager of the shop team, working to encourage an engaged, competent and helpful team in the shop, and inter-relations across the business

You will be responsible for using the EPOS till and stock system, ensuring the levels of produce needed for meeting demand, optimising income, and minimising waste

You will be inquisitive and proactive about understanding the shop, and wider business, performance, by assessing information available, gathering customer feedback, and representing opportunities for improvement and development

SPECIFIC DUTIES WILL INCLUDE:

Overseeing the purchase and rotation of stock including new lines Setting the staff rota and carefully managing the staffing requirements with seasons Managing the shop experience and environment to a high standard Regularly speaking with customers and finding ways of engaging them in providing feedback Handling staff absences through both return to work interviews and implementing cover arrangements Managing annual leave for all staff in a timely and consistent manner Undertaking staff training, 1-to-1s, performance reviews and leading all shop recruitment Assessing income and expenditure figures, producing reports, and attending management meetings

Introduction to the employer:

In March 2024 Falkland Rural Enterprises Ltd (FREL) took ownership of Pillars of Hercules (or Pillars is it is often referred to as) following the business gradually growing from its initial inception over 40 years ago. Pillars - albeit bigger than it was initially - is firmly rooted as a small, but busy, rural business encompassing an organic farm, shop, cafe, plant nursery, campsite and Bothy accommodation. The business has particular demands during certain times of the year and this means that seasonal adjustments in the hours and role should be expected.

Falkland Rural Enterprises Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you are a motivated individual looking for an opportunity to manage key administrative functions in a supportive environment, we encourage you to apply.

How to apply:

Check you are a good fit with the description given, and requirements of the position Get in touch with with any questions or if you would like a conversation about your suitability for this role Submit an application by sending your CV noting your relevant experience, and include a covering letter detailing your interest and skills for the role, Applications will be reviewed on Monday 26th May, with candidates shortlisted for interviews being contacted that week.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: 28,080.00 per year

Expected hours: 32 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Employee discount Free parking Store discount
Schedule:

8 hour shift Day shift Monday to Friday Weekend availability
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 25/05/2025
Reference ID: Shop Manager
Expected start date: 30/06/2025