Type: Fixed term, 2 year contract
Location: Abhainn na mBradan, Newtownsmith, Galway City
Position: Retail Manager
Reporting to: Fundraising & Retail Manager
Salary Scale: Manager 1B GRADE V (Clerical), Point 1
About COPE Galway:
COPE Galway is a local charity providing essential social services in Galway. We respond to the needs of people experiencing homelessness, women and children subjected to domestic abuse, and we support older people towards healthy, independent ageing. Our vision is for a community where every person is valued, cared for and supported at every stage of life.
COPE Galway is deeply woven into the Galway community. Our mission is built on the foundation of community spirit and the belief that together, we can make a positive difference for people during challenging times in their lives.
The Opportunity:
COPE Galway is seeking a dynamic and ambitious Retail Manager to take the lead in managing and developing two retail locations as part of our growing social enterprise. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced manager or an emerging leader ready for the next step in their career - one that offers genuine impact, responsibility, and growth in the nonprofit sector.
You'll have strategic oversight and day-to-day responsibility for the operations, people, and performance of both our St. Augustine Street and Newtownsmith charity shops. Your primary objective will be to develop and grow both retail outlets, drive sales, and create an exceptional shopping experience while fostering a strong culture of volunteer engagement and community involvement.
This is a leadership role with real autonomy - ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, purpose-driven environment and is passionate about sustainability, social impact, and retail innovation.
Main Responsibilities:
Oversee all aspects of daily operations across two retail sites, ensuring smooth functioning, consistent standards, and shared best practices.
Oversee management of volunteer teams in both locations - including recruitment, training, scheduling, and performance support - creating an inclusive, positive, and productive work environment.
Develop and implement retail strategies to increase footfall, maximise sales, and grow donations - including pricing, merchandising, stock rotation, and local marketing.
Take ownership of store development plans, including layout improvements, opportunity expansion (e.g. furniture, occasion wear), and in-store customer experiences.
Collaborate closely with the fundraising and communications team to create campaigns, promote sales, and raise awareness of our mission.
Foster strong community relationships with donors, suppliers, and customers; act as a visible ambassador for COPE Galway in the community.
Manage financial reporting, budgeting, and performance tracking; work to ensure both shops meet income targets and spending budgets.
Ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety, charity regulation, and internal policies.
Support wider organisational objectives by contributing ideas, innovation, and leadership to our social enterprise strategy.
Skills and Experience
Proven retail management experience, ideally across more than one location or in a high-responsibility retail role.
Experience in the charity/nonprofit sector is an advantage but not essential.
Strong leadership and people management skills, with a passion for developing others and building positive team cultures.
Excellent business acumen with the ability to analyse performance, set targets, and drive continuous improvement.
Highly organised and confident in managing multiple priorities.
A collaborative approach and natural relationship builder.
Brings creativity, initiative, and a positive, can-do energy - someone who contributes ideas and takes action.
Commitment to sustainability, circular economy principles, and the mission of COPE Galway.
Full, clean driving licence required.
Key terms and conditions of employment
24 days annual leave (not including bank holidays)
Flexible hybrid working (role dependent).
Employee Assistance Programme and up to €240 for paid private counselling.
Trauma Informed Practice training.
Learning and development opportunities.
Pension scheme.
Bike to work Scheme.
Christmas Savings Scheme.
Subsidised study assistance.
Access to Hospital Saturday Fund.
Staff discounts with selected local businesses
