Our approach to skin care involves meticulous attention to detail, using only the most efficacious ingredients to create formulations which stir the self and senses. The same meticulous approach is taken during our recruitment process, seeking out considered and inspired individuals with a wealth of perspectives who bring out the best in themselves and others.

We aim to strike the right balance between people, planet and profit, actively reducing our footprint on the planet that generously sustains us. So far, this journey has led us to become a certified B Corp.

Purpose of the role –

We are seeking a dedicated Retail Business Manager (RBM)/ Area Manager who will be responsible for overseeing a selection of our stores and counters in the UK as well as ensuring the achievement of sales targets in each of these doors.

In this role, you will be responsible for driving the performance of the business and customer service behaviours of staff to maximize results and the achievement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). You will recruit, lead, develop and motivate your teams to drive individual and team performance, whilst fostering a strong sense of communication and openness, in line with Aesop's culture and values.

You will be responsible for the consistent delivery of the Aesop customer service experience and operational excellence, striving to achieve the highest standards possible. The RBM develops the reputation and profile of the Aesop brand, their stores and counters by building the customer base, with the assistance of their teams, and developing productive relationships and partnerships in their local communities. A key conduit between Head Office and the stores, you will build effective relationships and facilitates excellent communication throughout the company.

This is a full-time position, based in London. The successful candidate will be required to be flexible to travel, including outside of London when required.

Key responsibilities of the role include, but are not limited to –

• Drive sales performance through identifying opportunities to drive sales and increase brand awareness -and exploit all commercial opportunities within brand guidelines.

• Ensure service and customer experience is at the forefront of all we do.

• Monitor monthly P&L statements to identify and implement strategies to manage controllable expenses and drive profitability in stores including payroll.

• Build Store Manager capability in analysing and understanding retail KPIs and sales data, coaching them on how to take appropriate action to improve sales performance and lift stores' overall productivity

• Drive the performance of Store Managers through monitoring their performance and providing feedback in a productive and constructive manner

• Lead the recruitment of Store Managers and support them in recruiting and retaining best in class Consultants for their stores

• Develop a succession plan for your team.

• Utilise and build your internal stakeholder relationships to drive the business forward.

• Partnering with the training team to actively train, motivate and coach Store Managers and support them in addressing Consultant training requirements

• Manage employee turnover by contributing to a positive, harmonious and stimulating work environment that encourages and celebrates talent

Who we are looking for –

• Several years cluster / area management experience ideally gained within a retail environment

• Commercial acumen – demonstrated experience in driving business KPI’s, staff planning, inventory etc.

• Solid understanding of analysis and financial management

• Excellent organisational skills and a demonstrated ability to multi-task and manage varying stakeholder requirements

• Demonstrated experience in the cultivation and enhancement of the customer experience in a retail environment

• Experience in coaching and developing staff

• Proficiency with MS Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint; familiarity with POS systems ; familiarity with an HRIS platform such as Workday

• Ability to build relationships and manage stakeholder expectations

• Excellent communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills

• Ability to be flexible with retail trading hours and work weekends when needed

• Demonstrated experience in leading/ managing discussions that centre on performance improvement and/or performance management

• Sound knowledge and experience in managing ER/ IR
  

What’s on offer-

We take a holistic approach to employment, promoting professional development, career growth, employee wellbeing initiatives and encouraging deep connections with the local community through the Aesop Foundation, volunteering, and matched giving programs.

Employee benefits include –

• Flexible, hybrid working pattern

• Generous product discount allowance and bi-annual complimentary product allocation

• Paid volunteering allowance for all employees

• Bonus opportunity based on personal, and business, performance

• Suite of options to aid development, including complimentary access to LinkedIn Learning, in-house Product and Core skills training and study support opportunities

• Access to employee assistance programmes, complimentary subscription to Headspace mindfulness app and summer hours options.

Aesop is committed to attracting, developing, and retaining the very best people by offering a creative and inclusive workplace where talent is truly recognised and rewarded. We are committed to promoting inclusion for all with the belief that diversity, inclusion and belonging plays an important role in the success of our organisation. We actively encourage everyone to consider becoming a part of our journey.

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