Cancer Research UK (CRUK)
Retail Operations Manager
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Retail Operations Manager (Divisional Operations Manager)
£45,000 - £52,000 plus benefits (Pro Rata) Fixed Term Contract until end of January 2027
Reports to: National Operations Manager Directorate: Marketing, Fundraising & Engagement
Availability: Immediately or on short notice due to short-term nature of the role
About the Role
Cancer Research UK is seeking an experienced commercial or charity retailer to join the Trading team as a Retail Operations Manager, responsible for supporting our North Division and Superstores. The role focuses on delivering performance, consistency, and compliance across our retail network while implementing a new operational structure.
As part of the retail strategy, this position involves:
- Driving income contribution and compliance
- Leading project delivery aligned with financial, team, people, and customer goals
- Strengthening leadership across a geographically diverse team
- Managing and developing Divisional Operations Executives to ensure alignment with strategic objectives
Key Responsibilities
Performance & Risk Analysis
- Utilise monthly and quarterly reports to monitor divisional performance, identifying risks, trends, and underperforming areas.
- Utilise data-driven insights to implement continuous improvement strategies.
Project Leadership
- Lead projects alongside the Divisional Business Manager to support strategic initiatives.
- Enhance relationships with key stakeholders, including Volunteer Fundraising, HR, Research Engagement, and Health & Safety teams.
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Strategy & Compliance
- Collaborate with the National Retail Performance Manager to implement new processes and procedures.
- Work with the National Operations Manager to ensure compliance across retail stakeholders.
- Manage health & safety standards, prioritising staff, volunteer, and public safety.
Leadership & Team Development
- Provide line management to Divisional Operations Executives, including objective setting, coaching, and performance reviews.
- Align team outputs with division-level goals and wider retail strategy.
Retail Field Operations
- Lead trading operations planning and monitor performance compared to goals.
- Support stocktake compliance and profit protection initiatives across the divisional network.
Additional Responsibilities
- Ensure effective Health & Safety audits with results-orientated outcomes.
- Provide hands-on support in shops as required during compliance checks.
Requirements
Essential Criteria
- Experience as a commercial or charity retailer with large-scale, multi-site retail management experience (at national or regional level).
- Proven leadership in driving, developing, and delivering results across geographically diverse teams.
- Experience managing change, innovating new ideas, and contributing to strategic business planning.
- Customer-focused approach, leveraging sector lead insights to meet evolving needs.
- Strong compliance background covering Health & Safety, profitability, and stock management.
- Budget and P&L management experience with a strong analytical approach.
- Ability to handle extensive travel, including overnight stays.
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Behavioral Competencies
Embodiments of Cancer Research UK’s core values:
- Bold: Act with ambition, courage, and determination.
- Credible: Operate with rigour and professionalism.
- Human: Fostering positive impact on others.
- Together: Promote collaboration and inclusivity.
Benefits
- Well-being focused environment with flexible policies.
- Generous benefits package, including career and personal development opportunities.
- Access to high-quality tools and supportive policies for work-life balance.
- Training to further development and growth.
Application Process
- Shortlisting process: CV required but not reviewed until interview stage (we use an anonymised approach).
- Selection involves screening calls followed by a competency-based interview with a presentation stage.
- Closing date: 12 July 2026 at 23:55 BST.
Visa & Location Restrictions
- Must be eligable to work in the UK.
- Applicants must be based in the North Division (Scotland, Northern England up to Wellington/West Midlands).
- Demonstrated ability to travel extensively and potentially stay overnight as required.
Key Notes
- Diversity & Inclusion: We encourage applications from underrepresented groups and support adjustments if needed.
- Safeguarding: We cannot employ anyone under 18 years old for health and safeguarding reasons.
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