WHSmith
Main - Sales Assistant

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Job Title: Retail Assistant – M&S Food (Franchise Store)
Location: Edinburgh Royal Infirmary
Reports to: Store Manager / Assistant Manager
Hours: 20 hours (PT) Early Mornings
Overview
We’re looking for a friendly, reliable and customer-focused Retail Assistant to join our M&S Food franchise store, operated by WHSmith.
As part of the team, you’ll help deliver the quality, service and experience that customers expect from M&S Food. You’ll work in a fast-paced, supportive environment where attention to detail and pride in presentation make all the difference.
Key Responsibilities
Customer Service
- Deliver a welcoming and professional service to every customer.
- Provide helpful information about products, promotions and offers.
- Handle transactions accurately and efficiently at the till.
Store Standards and Operations
- Ensure products are merchandised, rotated and replenished in line with M&S brand standards.
- Maintain product freshness and quality through regular checks.
- Support with deliveries, stock replenishment and back-of-house organisation.
- Follow all food hygiene, health and safety procedures.
- Keep the store clean, tidy and well-presented at all times.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Teamwork and Communication
- Work closely with colleagues and managers to achieve store targets.
- Communicate clearly to support smooth daily operations.
- Uphold the M&S values of quality, service and integrity in everything you do.
Skills and Experience
Essential
- Previous experience in retail, food service or a customer-facing role.
- A genuine passion for great customer service.
- Ability to multitask and work calmly under pressure.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high standards.
Desirable
- Experience within food retail or convenience environments.
- Knowledge of food hygiene and safety standards (Level 2 certification preferred).
- Experience working to brand or merchandising guidelines.


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What We Offer
- Competitive hourly rate plus staff discounts and benefits.
- Full training on M&S Food standards, customer service and food safety.
- Opportunities for development within the WHSmith franchise network.
- A positive, inclusive workplace built on teamwork and respect.
About the Franchise
WHSmith operates M&S Food stores across a range of locations including hospitals, travel hubs and local convenience sites. Together, we bring the trusted quality of M&S Food to customers wherever they are.
Please note that this role will require starts as early as 5am to support with bringing in delivery from the service yard to store. This role requires someone who has the ability to walk long distances whilst pushing/pulling heavy equipment.
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