Assistant Store Manager

Role overview

Zara is hiring a Deputy Store Manager for its Cardiff store on a maternity cover arrangement. This full-time position sits within the Inditex Group and offers the chance to take on an important leadership role in a busy retail setting. You will partner with the General Manager to improve store performance, guide the team, and help create an excellent shopping experience.

What you will do

• Help the General Manager achieve sales goals and store performance targets.
• Coordinate day-to-day work with the Product, Operations, and Customer Experience teams.
• Oversee smooth running of the store, including the sales floor, stockroom, and cash desk areas.
• Support efficient product movement, replenishment, and stock control.
• Keep the store looking organised, well-maintained, and presented to a high standard.
• Lead, encourage, and develop team members through coaching and clear communication.
• Handle rota planning, productivity tracking, and payroll-related processes.
• Assist with hiring, performance follow-up, and succession planning.
• Help build a positive, inclusive, and high-achieving workplace culture.
• Set the example for strong customer service and work with the CX Manager to improve the in-store journey.
• Ensure operational discipline contributes to customer satisfaction.
• Support store security, cash handling, and loss prevention procedures.
• Maintain strong health and safety standards across the store.

What Zara is looking for

The ideal candidate will have experience leading teams in a high-pressure retail environment and will be confident balancing commercial goals with people management. You should be organised, adaptable, and able to make decisions calmly when under pressure. A strong interest in fashion, customer experience, and innovation is important, along with the ability to inspire others and improve team performance.

Why this role stands out

Zara, part of Inditex, values diversity, creativity, and opportunity. The company aims to build inclusive teams where people feel respected and supported. Working here means joining a global brand that encourages development, welcomes new ideas, and supports sustainability and responsible retail practices.

Additional information

This vacancy is for maternity cover and is based in Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom. The role is described as full-time and onsite.