Trainee Manager - Wine Specialist Shop

Job Title: Trainee Manager (Progression to Shop/Retail Manager)
Location: South Lakes, Cumbria
Salary: £23,000 - £26,000 per year (with promotion opportunity to full time Manager after 6-9 months £28,000 - £32,000)

Role Type: Full-time Permanent

About the Role:

We are a seeking a Trainee Manager for our small, independent wine specialist shop located in Windermere, Cumbria. Our focus will be offering outstanding personal service, a curated range of wines, and a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. You'll work closely with the interim Store Manager for the first 6 months to learn every aspect of running the shop, from sales and customer service to inventory, marketing, and events. You'll be supported to grow into the Shop Manager role within 6 months.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a passion for wine, retail, and hospitality who's ready to take on leadership responsibility in an independent business setting.

This role offers a unique opportunity to grow into a management position within a close-knit business where your ideas and contributions directly impact the shop's success.

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver exceptional, personalised customer service to build loyalty and repeat business.
Take an active role in day-to-day shop operations - sales, merchandising, stock management, and supplier ordering.
Support and eventually lead marketing activities, including social media, email campaigns, in-store tastings, and collaborations with local businesses.
Build strong product knowledge (we'll support wine training including WSET qualifications if desired).
Ensure the shop is well-presented, welcoming, and compliant with safety standards.
Work with customers proactively, including reaching out with recommendations and event invitations.
Help drive sales and meet key shop targets.
Take ownership of operational tasks such as deliveries, visual merchandising, and cash handling.
Assist in the development of shop strategies and suggest improvements to grow business performance.

What We're Looking For:

Previous retail, hospitality, or customer-facing experience (wine knowledge is a plus, but not essential).
A passion for wine and enthusiasm for learning more.
A proactive, hands-on attitude with strong problem-solving skills.
Comfortable working independently and leading by example.
Good organisational, time management, and communication skills.
Familiarity with social media and digital marketing, or a willingness to learn.
Flexibility to work weekends and during busy trading periods.
A friendly, positive personality who enjoys engaging with customers.

Benefits

Employee discount on our wine selection
Wine training and tasting opportunities (WSET pathway support available)
A chance to work in a vibrant, community-focused shop in the heart of the Lake District
25 days holiday per year
Pension Scheme

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £23,000.00-£26,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person