Sara Thomas
Saxmundham,Suffolk
Summary
Experienced Retail Manager with a strong record of delivering exceptional customer service in a vibrant tourist town. Solid team leader with outgoing, positive demeanour and proven skills in establishing rapport with clients and colleagues. Motivated to maintain customer satisfaction and contribute to company success. Skilled in creating welcoming, engaging shopping environments and leading small teams with confidence and care. Highly adaptable with a hands-on approach that drives sales and supports team development. Passionate about health and wellbeing, both professionally and personally, with interests in wild swimming, hiking, and yoga that reflect a lifestyle rooted in balance and vitality.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Co Manager
RockShop Ambleside
Ambleside, Cumbria
04.2023 - 03.2024
- Oversaw daily operations, from pre-opening routines to cashing up and closing store
- Implemented health and safety regulations, ensured adherence.
- Instigated bi-weekly meetings with Head Office to address issues and discuss creative ideas
- Monitored stock levels to avoid overstocking or understocking issues.
- Designed attractive window and floor merchandise displays to increase daily footfall.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by delivering excellent service.
Duty Manager
Wickes
Martlesham, Suffolk
11.2017 - 03.2023
- Trained, mentored and supervised 15 employees, to deliver top-quality customer experience and uphold brand values.
- Led team members by example, showcasing exceptional customer service standards through excellent communication, dispute resolution and promotion of Trade Pro Scheme to generate return customers.
- Facilitated smooth store operations, performing daily opening and closing functions.
- Adhered to health and safety policies and procedures, maintaining compliant working environments and managing risk
- Promoted inclusion and diversity policies and encouraged health and wellbeing work streams - LBGTQ+, Disability and RAACE
Photographer
Self Employed
Ipswich, Suffolk
08.2003 - 11.2019
- Production of high-quality images at weddings, social occasions and for commercial use
- Content management of own website, blog and social media channels
- Attended and presented at networking groups to foster good business relationships within local area
Coach
Positive Futures and Grange Fitness
Ipswich, Suffolk
10.2014 - 10.2019
- Coached boxing to young people aged 11-19 at risk from substance misuse, youth crime and antisocial behaviour
- Cultivated positive relationships through motivation and encouragement
- Supported boxers throughout their training and at competitive events
- Planned and delivered 10+ unique sessions per week to both adults and children from 6 years old
Fundraising Coordinator
Lymphoma Association
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
05.1997 - 07.1998
- Conducted prospect research to identify and engage potential donors and partner organisations.
- Collaborated with senior leadership to identify funding objectives and devise workable development plans.
- Wrote letters of thanks to supporters and donors, with careful reference to patient notes held by the Helpline
Legal Cashier
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain
London
01.1988 - 11.1995
- Took responsibility for firm's office account, including billing and payments, bank reconciliations, credit control and ad hoc reporting to fee earners
Education
National Diploma - Photography
Huntingdonshire Regional College
HuntingdonA-Levels - Biology, French, Physics, General Studies
Kesteven And Grantham Girls' School
GranthamSkills
- Communication
- Relationship-building
- Creative thinking
- Photography
- Social Media
Certification
- First Aid at Work
- Fork Lift Truck License
- Domestic Abuse Awareness in the Workplace
- Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace
Timeline
Co Manager
RockShop Ambleside
04.2023 - 03.2024
Duty Manager
Wickes
11.2017 - 03.2023
Coach
Positive Futures and Grange Fitness
10.2014 - 10.2019
Photographer
Self Employed
08.2003 - 11.2019
Fundraising Coordinator
Lymphoma Association
05.1997 - 07.1998
Legal Cashier
Reynolds Porter Chamberlain
01.1988 - 11.1995
National Diploma - Photography
Huntingdonshire Regional College
A-Levels - Biology, French, Physics, General Studies
Kesteven And Grantham Girls' School
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