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Job description

THE EMPLOYER IS: USPCA This role supports the day-to-day operation of a busy USPCA charity shop, working closely with and assisting a dedicated team of volunteers to ensure the store runs smoothly and efficiently. Responsibilities include operating tills, handling cash, and processing sales accurately, as well as supporting effective stock management through stock rotation, processing donations, and maintaining agreed stock levels. The postholder will help maximise sales performance by contributing to income targets and increasing Gift Aid participation, pricing items in line with USPCA guidelines, and maintaining high standards of merchandising and store presentation. The role also involves delivering excellent customer service to shoppers and donors, making informed commercial decisions to optimise sales space, and assisting in promoting the store within the local community and across social media platforms. In addition to retail duties, the role carries wider organisational responsibilities, including ensuring that all client, donor, and volunteer data is handled in accordance with GDPR and confidentiality requirements. The postholder will support and participate in USPCA fundraising initiatives and community events, contributing positively to the charity’s outreach and engagement efforts. At all times, the individual will represent the USPCA in a professional manner, actively promoting its mission, values, and commitment to animal welfare.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the day-to-day running of a busy charity shop, working alongside and supporting a dedicated team of volunteers. This includes learning how to motivate, guide, and train volunteers in store processes.
• Support the smooth operation of the shop by operating tills, handling cash, and processing sales accurately. You will also learn effective stock management practices including stock rotation, processing donations, and maintaining agreed stock levels.
• Contribute to maximising sales performance by learning how to meet income targets and increase Gift Aid participation. This involves pricing items in line with USPCA guidelines, making effective use of sales space and keeping good presentation.
• Deliver excellent customer service to both shoppers and donors, ensuring a welcoming and professional experience. You will also assist in promoting the store within the local community and across social media channels to help raise awareness.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Strong communication skills are essential, as the role involves working closely with volunteers, customers, and donors.
• Basic numeracy and accuracy are required for operating tills, handling cash, and processing sales. Attention to detail is also important when pricing items, following guidelines, and handling data in line with GDPR and confidentiality requirements.
• An knowledge of retail and a commercial mindset are valuable, particularly when learning how to maximise sales, use shop floor space effectively, and meet income targets.
• Ability to help with merchandising and maintaining attractive displays.
• A commitment to excellent customer service and alignment with the USPCA’s values and mission are key to succeeding in this role.
• The ability to work as part of a team.

Desirable Skills

• Previous experience in a retail or charity shop environment is desirable.
• Experience working with or supervising volunteers would be an advantage.
• Experience with stock control, pricing, and using electronic tills or point-of-sale systems would be helpful.
• Basic digital skills, including the ability to use social media to promote the shop and engage with the local community, are desirable.
• Experience supporting fundraising activities or community events would be an asset.
• An interest in animal welfare and prior involvement with charitable or non-profit organisations is advantageous, as it supports a strong understanding of the organisation’s values and mission.

Further Information

The Employer is: USPCA JobStart Opportunity - Working Hours Information - Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week. - Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach. - Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment. The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.

Application Information

JOBSTART IS OPEN TO WORKING AGE BENEFIT CLAIMANTS WHO ARE DEEMED ELIGIBLE BY A WORK COACH. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.