Royal Mile Whiskies
Retail Branch Manager
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Job Title: Retail Branch Manager
Location: Royal Mile Whiskies, York
Contract Type: Full Time / Permanent
About Us
The Dormant Distillery Company operate one of Scotland’s leading Whisky Specialist retailers and wholesalers, Royal Mile Whiskies. Founded in 1998, the company also run a specialist tobacconist on the Royal Mile, The Cigar Box, and in 2011 opened specialist drinks retail shops in Edinburgh and Pitlochry, Drinkmonger, with the vision to provide the most comprehensive range of quality alcohol products in Scotland.
Along with their online business through www.royalmilewhiskies.com and www.drinkmonger.com, the company have also developed a wholesale business, supplying the on trade across Scotland and beyond.
We are now opening a new Royal Mile Whiskies store in York. The successful candidate will need a genuine interest in cigars as well as premium drinks, with training and supplier support provided.
The Role
The Retail Branch Manager will be responsible for overseeing the operations of the York store, ensuring a positive and seamless customer experience. The role involves implementing clear sales and merchandising strategies, managing a team of staff, maximising operational efficiency, and ensuring effective compliance and security.
You will play a key role in opening the new store, shaping the team, establishing standards, and building a strong customer experience from the outset. The Retail Branch Manager position will report to the Head of Retail.
Responsibilities
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Team leadership
- Recruit, train and supervise retail staff
- Create a positive and collaborative work environment
- Set clear expectations and support performance and development
- Delegate tasks effectively to ensure smooth day to day operations
Customer service
- Lead by example on the shop floor to deliver exceptional customer service
- Handle customer queries and concerns professionally
- Build relationships with regular customers and support repeat business
- Ensure an inclusive and welcoming environment for all customers
Sales and performance
- Deliver sales targets through strong service, product knowledge and upselling
- Monitor sales performance and key metrics
- Support events and promotions, including tastings and in store activity
Stock and merchandising
- Maintain excellent standards of stock control and accuracy
- Oversee deliveries, stock replenishment, and stock room organisation
- Maintain high visual merchandising standards and seasonal displays
- Work to minimise shrinkage and losses through good practice and audits
Cigar Box integration
- Ensure a confident customer experience across cigars and accessories as well as drinks
- Maintain presentation standards for cigars and related products
- Support staff learning and confidence in cigar knowledge over time
Compliance and security
- Ensure adherence to company policies and procedures
- Maintain licensing standards and safe, compliant retail operations
- Implement security measures to safeguard stock and cash
Job Requirements
- Previous retail or hospitality management experience
- Strong people leadership skills with the ability to motivate a team
- A commercial mindset and confidence working towards targets
- Excellent organisation and attention to detail
- Strong customer service and communication skills
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While specialist knowledge is not required, an interest in drinks retail is important and you should be open to learning about premium products, including cigars, over time.
Additional Info, Salary, and Benefits
This is a 40 hour per week, permanent post. The store is open 7 days and opening times are variable according to seasonal requirements.
Benefits include:
- Enhanced annual leave with length of service
- Childcare support contribution for children under 3
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Staff discount on a large range of products
- Training opportunities including WSET and supplier training
- Opportunities to attend industry events and festivals
We would particularly encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
How to Apply
Closing Date:
This will be a rolling recruitment process, so may close at any time, please ensure you submit your application early.
What to include:
If you are interested in applying for this role, please forward both of the following:
- Covering letter outlining your relevant experience
- Current and up to date CV
Please also be aware that due to the volume of applications, we are unable to respond to all applicants.
Send applications to:
Gemma Connor
HR Director
The Dormant Distillery Company Ltd
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