Area Manager – International Accessories Brand – UK

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Area Manager to lead and support a group of stores across the region. The Area Manager will be hands-on in stores, leading by example and ensuring exceptional customer service standards are consistently delivered.

This role is ideal for an Area Manager who enjoys being on the shop floor, coaching teams, improving performance, and stepping in wherever support is needed. The successful Area Manager will also be confident managing people topics, supporting HR processes, and creating a strong team culture across all locations.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Service & Experience (Core Focus)

  • Drive outstanding customer service across all stores and ensure a customer-first mindset is embedded in every team.
  • Lead from the front by delivering excellent service and demonstrating best practices on the shop floor.
  • Coach teams to build strong customer relationships and deliver a positive experience at every touchpoint.
  • Support customer complaint handling and ensure service recovery is managed professionally.
Hands-On Multi-Site Store Support

  • Provide strong store support through frequent visits and daily contact with teams.
  • Step in to cover store management gaps when required, ensuring stores continue operating at a high standard.
  • Be comfortable working in-store when needed, including supporting sales and customer service directly.
  • Ensure all stores feel supported, stable, and well managed.
Leadership & Team Development

  • Lead, motivate, and develop Store Managers and teams across the region.
  • Coach teams through regular feedback, structured support, and performance improvement plans.
  • Build a strong culture of accountability, teamwork, and high standards across the area.
HR & People Management

  • Support Store Managers with recruitment, onboarding, and staff retention.
  • Manage employee relations topics such as attendance, performance, conduct, and team wellbeing.
  • Promote a positive and professional working environment across all stores.
Operations & Store Standards

  • Ensure consistent operational standards across stores including stock control, compliance, and daily processes.
  • Support stores in maintaining strong visual standards, cleanliness, and presentation.
  • Identify operational challenges and provide solutions to improve performance and store effectiveness.
Performance & Results

  • Drive performance through coaching, clear routines, and daily leadership.
  • Support stores in meeting and exceeding sales targets and key KPIs.
  • Monitor store results and take action quickly where additional support is required.
Key Skills & Competencies

  • Hands-on leadership style with strong retail experience
  • Passionate about customer service and team development
  • Strong people management and HR understanding
  • Confident coaching teams and supporting performance improvement
  • Organised and comfortable managing multiple stores
  • Flexible mindset and able to step into stores when required
Experience Required

  • Proven experience in multi-site retail leadership (Area Manager / Cluster Manager / Senior Store Manager).
  • Strong background in customer service-driven retail environments.
  • Experience managing teams, supporting HR processes, and improving store performance.
  • Willingness to travel regularly across the region.
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