SWACA Shop and Volunteer Lead

About the role

Shop and Volunteer Lead SWACA

Location: Hybrid

Hours: 3 days per week initially, with the opportunity to increase to 5 days per week subject to agreed income targets being achieved.

Contract: Fixed-term for 6 months, with the possibility of extending to 12 months if funding and income targets are met.

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (or nominated line manager)

SWACA is looking for a motivated and entrepreneurial Shop and Volunteer Lead to transform its charity retail operation into a thriving community hub. This role combines retail management, fundraising, volunteer leadership, community engagement and marketing to increase unrestricted income and raise awareness of the charity’s work.

The successful candidate will develop a financially sustainable retail operation that generates income through shop sales, online retail, fundraising activities and grant funding. The postholder will be expected to generate sufficient income to cover the cost of their employment while delivering a measurable financial surplus for the charity.

Key responsibilities include leading the day-to-day operation of the charity shop, increasing income through improved retail performance, and developing an online retail offer using platforms such as eBay, Vinted and Shopify. The role will also involve recruiting, training and supporting volunteers, coordinating volunteer rotas and encouraging volunteer development.

The successful candidate will identify funding opportunities and prepare low to medium value grant applications, develop fundraising initiatives, and support wider income generation activities. They will promote SWACA through marketing campaigns, social media and community engagement, while building strong relationships with local businesses, schools and community organisations.

Additional responsibilities include encouraging donations, maximising Gift Aid income, producing reports on sales, income, volunteer activity and grant performance, and ensuring compliance with health and safety requirements, financial procedures and Gift Aid regulations.

Success will be measured through agreed performance indicators, including increased shop sales and unrestricted income, the development of a successful online retail operation, growth in volunteer numbers and retention, successful grant applications, increased awareness of SWACA, and the generation of sufficient income to cover salary costs and create a financial surplus.

Applicants should have experience in retail management, a proven track record in sales and income generation, experience managing staff or volunteers, online selling experience, and experience writing successful grant applications or fundraising bids. Strong organisational, communication, IT and social media skills are essential, along with a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Desirable experience includes working within the charity sector, knowledge of Gift Aid, marketing experience, experience of impact reporting, and an understanding of domestic abuse or wider social justice issues.

This role is initially offered for three days per week and may increase to five days per week when agreed income targets are achieved. The initial six-month contract may be extended to twelve months where funding and income targets are successfully met.

To request an application form and full job description, please email recruitment@swaca.com

Closing date: 4 September.