Job Description:

Be the First to Brew Something Extraordinary
Step into a role where elegance meets excitement, where discovery isn’t just what we deliver to customers but what we inspire in our teams. At Whittard of Chelsea, we’ve been crafting moments of exceptional tea, coffee, and hot chocolate adventure since 1886. Now, we’re opening the doors to a brand-new store at Bluewater Shopping Centre and we’re looking for a Store Manager to lead the charge.

This is more than just managing a store. It’s about shaping the Whittard experience from day one and building something exceptional from the ground up.

 

A Day in the Life of a Whittard Store Manager

Imagine unlocking the doors for the very first time - shelves perfectly merchandised, the scent of freshly brewed samples in the air, and your brand-new team buzzing with anticipation. From day one, you’ll set the tone for a culture of warmth, expertise, and discovery. Every moment is yours to shape.

You’ll be:

  • Customer-Obsessed: You’ll set the gold standard from the get-go, ensuring every customer feels welcome and inspired. You’ll bring our products to life with storytelling, tasting, and enthusiasm - making our new store a destination, not just a shop.
  • Performance-Driven: You’ll hit the ground running with clear goals and strong commercial instincts. From reading your daily KPIs to adapting layouts or testing new sampling strategies, you’ll bring sharp focus and fast action.
  • Team Focused: You’ll recruit, train, and lead a brand-new team - instilling Whittard’s values and setting them up for success. With live coaching, regular check-ins, and plenty of recognition, you’ll create a supportive culture that inspires excellence.
  • Operationally Sharp: As we launch, you’ll be hands-on in setting up new processes, managing initial deliveries, and embedding gold-standard retail routines. You’ll create a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment from the outset - always staying on top of health and safety and store standards.
  • Locally Connected: With a new store comes a new community - you’ll build relationships, forge partnerships, and find creative ways to draw people in. Whether it's a launch event or a tie-in with a local café, you’ll make sure everyone knows Whittard has arrived.

No two days will be the same - but each one is a chance to create a store your team and customers will love.

About The Applicant:

Qualifications

What Makes You Exceptional?

We’re looking for someone who’s as excited as we are about bringing Whittard to a brand-new location:

  • Leadership Experience: 2+ years of retail management experience, with a track record of building strong, service-focused teams.
  • A Customer-Focused Mindset: Passionate about delivering stand-out service and building long-term customer loyalty.
  • A Commercial Edge: Confident interpreting KPIs and making decisions that drive both performance and team engagement.

Further Information:

Benefits:

Why Whittard?

At Whittard, we believe our future is built by curious, passionate people—just like you. As a Store Manager launching a new store, you'll have the rare opportunity to leave your mark from day one. We'll support your journey with tailored development, wellbeing initiatives, and a culture that celebrates your contributions.

You’ll also enjoy:

  • Up to 50% store discount – discover your new favourites!
  • Monthly product allowance – a little perk with every pay cheque.
  • Discretionary bonus scheme – because great work should be recognised.
  • Wellbeing resources & family-friendly policies – because we care about the whole you.
  • Opportunities to connect across stores and head office – be part of something bigger.

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