Oxfam Shop Supervisor: Withington

Overview
Oxfam is a global movement of millions of people who share the belief that, in a world rich in resources, poverty isn't inevitable. We respond fast in emergencies, work on long-term projects with communities and campaign for genuine, lasting change.
Our volunteers, staff and those we aim to influence are all guided by our values of empowerment, accountability and inclusiveness.

Our Shops
With a network of over 500 shops, our diverse volunteers play an integral role in championing Oxfam’s values, running the shops and promoting our life saving work to the wider community. Through the sale of donated goods and our ethical range of new products, Sourced by Oxfam, our shops raise millions of pounds each year to fund our crucial work to end the injustice of poverty. Oxfam shops are at the forefront in campaigning for sustainable fashion and we are proud that no item of clothing donated to us finds its way to the landfill.

Why do we need you?
Our shops would not be able to raise crucial funds for Oxfam’s emergency and development work all over the world without our dedicated volunteers, who provide their time and bring a multitude of skills. In return, we offer personal development, valuable insight into charity retail and a friendly environment to meet new people. You can watch our volunteering video on the Oxfam GB YouTube channel.  

We are looking for a very special person who is available on a regular basis, hopefully for a full day, and able to take a lead in running the Withington shop. This is a great opportunity to develop your supervisory skills and show future employers what you can achieve!

What are your key responsibilities?
You will support the shop manager with the day-to-day running of the shop according to business demands, this may include:

• Leading and inspiring the team.
• Ensuring that a fun and rewarding environment is created for volunteers and customers.
• Opening, closing and managing the shop in the shop manager’s absence.
• Ensuring the stock flows from donation to shop floor to till and that excellent customer service is offered at all times.
• Ensuring safeguarding and health and safety policies are followed.
• Effectively delegating responsibilities and coaching individuals.
• Maximising the income from donations, Sourced by Oxfam and Gift Aid.
• Ensuring that shop activities reflect Oxfam's values and beliefs.
• Keeping up to date with Oxfam’s internal communications and sharing news with the shop team.

What skills and experience are we looking for?
Ideally you will have previous supervisory & / or retail experience but you will need to be an inspiring leader. The following would be beneficial:

• Enthusiasm and an ability to motivate others.
• Commitment to Oxfam’s values of empowerment, accountability and inclusiveness.
• Ability to work within Oxfam’s policies and shop guidelines.
• Commitment to achieving shop aims and objective.
• Ability to work collaboratively with the shop manager and the shop team.
• Ability to work well as a team leader, part of a team and under own initiative.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Being friendly and approachable.
• Ability to deal in a tactful and professional manner with confidential information and in sensitive situations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel. 
• Fun-loving and inspiring with a willingness to learn and share knowledge.

What will you gain from this opportunity?
Our shops are fun, friendly and supportive environments plus there are usually yummy biscuits!
 

Volunteering

• is a fantastic way to meet new people and develop other relationships outside of home, work or study.
• allows you to work in a different environment and can be a way of relaxing from a busy lifestyle.
• gives you the chance to grow, build your self-esteem as well as developing skills and the confidence to use them in all walks of life.

This role will provide the opportunity to

• use and develop your skills and experience, particularly in the areas of teamwork, communication and decision-making.
• to gain and / or improve your customer service, management, leadership and interpersonal skills.
• gain valuable experience in retail.
• learn about Oxfam’s humanitarian, development and campaigning work.

Lunch and local travel expenses can be reimbursed in line with Oxfam’s policy.

Young People and this Role
We are proud of having a diverse volunteer base made up of people from different backgrounds and ages. The minimum age for this role is eighteen. This role may involve supervision of volunteers who are under 18. You will therefore be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check. You can find out more information about safeguarding policies on our website.

Learning Opportunities
We will provide you with ongoing support and training throughout your volunteering journey. This includes a full induction and specific training on Health and Safety, Safeguarding and Gift Aid. 

What's Next?
Once we receive your expression of interest, we will ask you to complete our volunteer application form. We will then contact you to discuss the opportunity. Please note we do require a positive reference and proof of identification prior to any volunteer starting. 

Thank you very much for your interest in volunteering with us. We look forward to having you in our team.