Customer Team Leader

Job Description

Take the next step toward retail management with Co-op.

As a Customer Team Leader, you will be a hands-on supervisor in a fast-paced community store. This role is designed for those who enjoy variety—one hour you might be managing the bakery or post office services, and the next you’ll be coaching your team to deliver exceptional service. You will be the “pace-setter” on the shop floor, ensuring the store runs smoothly during your shift while championing Co-op’s unique membership model and community initiatives.

Why this role is different:

Co-op is a member-owned movement, not just a retailer. You aren’t just managing stock; you are supporting local charities, helping your team grow, and ensuring the store remains a reliable hub for the neighborhood.

Key Responsibilities:

• Shift Leadership: Own the day-to-day running of the store and lead a team of Customer Team Members.

• Coaching: Motivate and support your team to improve their skills and deliver great service.

• Operational Excellence: Handle merchandising, stock accuracy, and till operations while maintaining high standards.

• Community Engagement: Drive Co-op membership and support local community and charity partnerships.

• Compliance: Authorize age-related sales and ensure all store policies (HR, Health & Safety) are followed.

What You’ll Bring:

• A passion for people and a “lead by example” work ethic.

• The flexibility to work a varied shift pattern (early mornings to late nights).

• Previous retail or team management skills are beneficial, but experience is not essential if you have the right drive.

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Job Data Table

Category	Details
Company Name	Co-op
Location	15 Victoria Road, Reading, RG7 3SH
Locality	Mortimer / Reading
Country	United Kingdom
City	Reading (Near Slough)
Region	South East England
Job Type	Part-time, Permanent
Salaries	£13.99 per hour
Experience Level	Entry-level Leadership (Experience not essential)
Travel	Site-based
Language	English
Benefits	30% Staff Discount, 10% Pension, 36 days holiday (pro-rata)

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Skills & Competency Table

Key Skill	Level
Team Leadership	Advanced (Training provided)
Customer Service	Expert
Merchandising	Advanced
Stock Management	High
Community Engagement	High

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Salaries Pay Calculator Table

Hourly Rate	Weekly (22.5h)	Est. Monthly	Notes
£13.99	£314.78	£1,364.00	Regular overtime often available

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Job Summary

This permanent part-time role based in Reading involves leading a small retail team across varied shifts. You will manage store operations, coach staff, and engage with the community while earning £13.99/hr. The role offers a market-leading 30% discount on Co-op products and a clear path toward store management.

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FAQs

Wait, is the job in Slough or Reading?

While advertised via a Slough-based feed, the specific store location is listed as 15 Victoria Road, Reading, RG7 3SH.

Do I need a CV to apply?

No. Co-op has a mobile-friendly application process that uses online assessments instead of a traditional CV.

What are the shift times?

Shifts are varied and include early mornings (starting at 6:00 am), afternoons, late evenings (until 10:00 pm), and weekends.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. You must be 18 or older because the role involves authorizing age-restricted sales (like alcohol and tobacco).

How does the 30% discount work?

Colleagues receive a 30% discount on Co-op brand products and a 10% discount on other brands in-store.

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Expert Analysis

The pay rate of £13.99/hr is significantly above the standard retail associate wage, placing it competitively within the “Supervisor” bracket. The 36 days of holiday (pro-rata) and 10% pension contribution are exceptional for the retail sector, where 28 days and 3% are more common. This is an ideal role for someone looking to build a “career” in retail rather than just having a “job.”

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Location & Logistics Guide

The store is located in the Mortimer area of Reading (RG7). It is a community-focused location, so a local candidate or someone with reliable transport for 6:00 am starts is ideal. The Mortimer station provides links to Reading and Basingstoke for those using public transport.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mortimer_Common

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Career Path

The Customer Team Leader (CTL) is the primary stepping stone to becoming a Store Manager. Co-op is known for its internal “Apprenticeship” programs and management training, allowing CTLs to move into Store Manager in Training roles or regional operations within 12–24 months.