Deputy Manager - Manchester Trafford - #1780274

At Whittard of Chelsea, we’ve been curating moments of joy through our tea, coffee and hot chocolate since 1886. Now, we’re opening the doors to a brand-new store at Manchester Trafford Centre and we’re looking for a Deputy Manager to help lead the charge. This isn’t just any Deputy Manager role. It’s your chance to be there from the very beginning - shaping the team, setting the standards, and helping bring the Whittard experience to life in a brand-new location. A Day in the Life of a Whittard Deputy Manager Opening a new store is a rare and exciting opportunity. As Deputy Manager, you’ll be right at the heart of it - supporting the Store Manager to build a team, create a standout customer experience, and ensure every detail is dialled in for success.You’ll be:

• Customer-Centric from Day One You’ll set the tone for exceptional service—bringing energy, product knowledge and storytelling to every interaction. You’ll lead by example and coach your team to do the same, making our store a true destination.
• People-Focused You’ll help recruit, train and support your new team—setting clear expectations and building confidence from the start. You’ll bring structure, motivation and plenty of on-the-spot coaching as the team finds their rhythm.
• Operationally Ready From first deliveries to the first transaction, you’ll be hands-on with every detail. You’ll ensure all stock, health & safety, cash and daily routines are running like clockwork—and help shape a smooth, scalable operation from day one.
• Performance-Driven You’ll track KPIs, spot early opportunities, and adapt quickly with your Store Manager to maximise success. You’ll know how to read commercial reports and implement ideas that drive results—and you’ll encourage the team to do the same.
• Locally Connected As we launch, you’ll help build relationships with local businesses and customers, ensuring the store becomes a loved part of the community. Whether it’s a local tasting event or a friendly introduction, you’ll help make our launch unforgettable.
  
  

What Makes You Exceptional? We’re looking for a hands-on leader who’s excited to help launch something new and help a team succeed together. You’ll bring:

• Proven supervisory or assistant management experience in a fast-paced retail environment.
• A natural confidence in leading by example and coaching others.
• A strong sense of ownership and responsibility—someone who steps in, solves problems and keeps things moving.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to interpret performance data to influence decisions.
• Outstanding organisation skills and a calm approach to busy trading periods.
• Genuine excitement about customer experience and the Whittard brand.