Job Title: Farm Shop Assistant Manager
Reports to: Farm Shop Manager
Location: Cowdray Farm Shop, Midhurst
Contract type: Full time, including weekend working
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience + benefits
About Cowdray
Cowdray is a progressive, family run rural estate at the heart of the South Downs National Park. Our Farm Shop is an award-winning destination, recognised for exceptional product quality, locally sourced food, specialist deli & cheese offerings, and outstanding standards of presentation and customer experience.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced retail leader who has worked in a similar high-quality food or farm shop environment and has a strong track record of leading teams to deliver exceptional display standards and customer service. This is a hands-on leadership role where you will play a key part in maintaining and elevating the shop’s visual appeal, atmosphere, and service culture, ensuring every customer experience reflects the quality and provenance of our offering.
As Assistant Manager, you will:
- Act as a visible, hands-on leader, setting the pace and standards on the shop floor
- Lead, inspire and develop the shop team to consistently deliver outstanding customer service
- Take ownership of visual merchandising, ensuring displays are creative, abundant, and aligned with seasonal themes and product storytelling
- Maintain exceptional standards of product presentation, shop floor layout, and overall environment
- Coach and support team members to improve performance, confidence, and product knowledge
- Support the delivery of seasonal events, promotions, and product launches
- Monitor performance, waste, and costs in line with business targets
- Ensure full compliance with health & safety and food hygiene standards
What We’re Looking For
You will bring:
- Proven experience in a similar environment (farm shop, deli, food hall, or premium retail) where high standards of display and service are essential
- Demonstrable success in leading and motivating a team to deliver excellent visual merchandising and customer experience
- A strong eye for detail and pride in maintaining beautiful, well-stocked, and inspiring displays
- A genuine passion for food, local produce, and quality retail
- Good commercial awareness and the ability to drive performance through people and presentation
- Flexibility to work weekends and occasional evenings
- Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards
- A positive, proactive attitude and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
What We Offer
- A dynamic and supportive working environment within a renowned rural estate
- Opportunities for training, development, and career progression
- Staff discounts, benefits, and a strong team culture
- The opportunity to work in a high-quality retail environment where standards and presentation truly matter
To Apply
Please send your CV and a short covering letter (highlighting your experience in leading teams to deliver high standards of display and service) to [email protected].
