How to Write a Store Manager CV: Examples and Best Tips!

Crafting a CV for a store manager role requires a blend of leadership, organisation, and customer service skills. Whether you're a seasoned manager or stepping into this position for the first time from a previous supermarket or retail role, we show you the essentials of how to write a good CV to present your expertise effectively.

This guide helps you to create a modern CV, even if you're just starting with no experience or shifting careers. Before applying to your ideal job, you must ensure your CV is optimised for applicant tracking systems (ATS). Setting yourself apart from the competition begins with choosing a professional CV template that aligns with industry standards. Hence, your application is easier to scan and more likely to attract recruiters and potential employers.

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Store manager CV example 

Download this sample CV for a store manager job in the UK

This UK Store Manager CV example features Stephen, a seasoned Senior Grocery Manager with over five years of enhancing store operations, boosting sales, and maintaining excellent customer service. His listed experience and achievements showcase his industry knowledge, profit-driven focus, and essential soft skills. Showcasing career growth from Store Assistant to Manager, which underscores his commitment to advance and excel in his career. Utilising the Cornell design, this Store Manager CV template is well-formatted and outlines his professional background in retail management.

What to include in a store manager CV? 

In the competitive retail industry there are many opportunities for store management roles in national companies like Aldi and the Range. Creating a tailored and impactful CV is crucial for being shortlisted for the job you are applying for. To make the best impression, include these essential sections:

1. Include contact information at the top of your CV – name, phone, email, and location.

2. Compose a brief yet compelling profile summary of achievements and career aspirations.

3. Highlight soft and hard skills that match the job description.

4. Showcase your professional background and detailed work experience, emphasising duties and accomplishments in customer service, retail management or related areas.

5. List education that spotlights relevant certifications or qualifications.

6. Consider including an additional section for languages, hobbies and interests, or references.

See our related CV example articles to explore more roles that share a focus on logistics, leadership and inventory management that are crucial for a store management setting:

• Account Manager CV 

• Bookkeeper CV

• Business Analyst CV  

• Supply Chain CV  

• Warehouse CV.

For practical advice on how to kickstart your job application, check out our blog about the CV writing process, by learning how to start with a master CV, then tailoring your CV for each job.

How to write a store manager CV personal profile

Writing a compelling personal profile is essential to grab the attention of potential employers. Begin with a concise, impactful summary highlighting applicable experience working in shops, product or service knowledge, and essential soft skills. Showcase your proficiency in tools or software packages, driving sales, optimising store operations, and fostering a positive customer-centric environment. Tailor your statement to reflect your unique strengths and industry-specific skills while emphasising your dedication to customer service.

To learn more, refer to our personal profile on a CV blog. 

Essential skills for a store manager CV

Writing an effective sample CV for a retail store manager requires a robust blend of hard and soft skills, focusing on customer-centric abilities and operational efficiency. Success in this role relies on a mix of skills, from being adept at leading and motivating teams to achieving sales targets while ensuring the operational efficiency of stores. High motivation, both personally and for inspiring your team, is paramount. 

If you have little to no work experience in this industry, consider using a skills-based CV format. Shift the focus to a detailed breakdown of your relevant skills or accomplishments that are relevant for this type of role that you have gained in other jobs.

Refer to our helpful guide on how to list skills on a CV for additional tips. 

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How to include work experience in a store manager CV

Emphasise relevant duties highlighted in the job description and what you contributed to a team or organisation. Utilise bullet points to showcase quantifiable achievements, such as revenue growth percentages, successful team performance metrics, or improvements in customer satisfaction. Describe key responsibilities in managing inventory, overseeing staff, and implementing effective visual merchandising strategies. See how to write work experience on a CV for more details.

Work experience examples

Store Manager | Tesco | Manchester | 2018 - Present

Oversee daily store operations, including inventory management, staffing, and customer service. Manage a team, ensuring smooth workflow and adherence to company standards. Develop and implement strategies to meet sales targets and enhance customer experience. Analyse sales trends, adjust inventory levels and optimise product placement for improved performance. Handle administrative tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and reporting.

• Implemented a customer loyalty program, resulting in a 30% increase in repeat customer visits within six months.

• Streamlined inventory management procedures, reducing stock discrepancies by 25% and improving overall stock accuracy.

Assistant Store Manager | Sainsbury's | Birmingham | 2018 - 2022

Assisted in overseeing store activities, including inventory management and staff supervision. Support the store manager in executing strategies to deliver exceptional customer service. Conduct staff training programs and ensure compliance with operational guidelines. Collaborate in devising promotional strategies to enhance sales performance.

• Introduced a staff training initiative that reduced service-related complaints by 20%.

• Contributed to a 15% increase in quarterly sales by implementing innovative promotional campaigns.

Senior Store Manager | Asda | Glasgow |2016 - 2020 

Oversee daily store operations, including inventory management, staffing, and customer service. Manage a team, ensuring smooth workflow and adherence to company standards. Develop and implement strategies to meet sales targets and enhance customer experience. Analyse sales trends, adjust inventory levels and optimise product placement for improved performance. Handle administrative tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and reporting.

• Implemented a customer loyalty program, resulting in a 30% increase in repeat customer visits within six months.

• Streamlined inventory management procedures, reducing stock discrepancies by 25% and improving overall stock accuracy.

Work experience example for a store manager CV with little to no experience

Retail Associate, Primark, London, UK, 2021-2023

Provided customer service by actively engaging with customers to assist in product selection, address inquiries, and offer guidance on merchandise. Maintained a tidy and clean store environment, consistently ensuring that all areas were organised and tidy. Contributed to visually appealing merchandise displays by arranging products. Assisted in inventory management tasks, including restocking shelves, conducting stock checks, and ensuring product availability.

• Improved inventory management, resulting in a 10% reduction in stock discrepancies.

• Regularly acknowledged for delivering exceptional customer service and elevating customer satisfaction levels.

For those with little to no experience, you can still include relevant experience gained from your studies or other customer service-orientated or leadership roles within hospitality or as a shop assistant or cashier. Include any part-time experience to show a well-rounded work history.

Boost your CV with the education section 

From established giants like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco to independent franchises like Subway or Costa, diverse opportunities exist, and qualifications play a crucial role. Becoming a store manager can be approached through various paths, such as pursuing a university degree or college courses related to business, administration, or retail management.

When structuring the education section, always include the following:

• Degree/diploma type and level of study

• The institution/ organisation

• Completion date/ in progress

• Any relevant subjects related to the job you are applying for.

If you’re a school leaver and aspire to become a store manager, many store such as Aldi offer apprenticeships to help you achieve your career goals.

Learn how to master the education section on your CV for more tips. 

How to add courses and certificates to your store manager CV 

Incorporating relevant courses and certifications on your CV such as retail or business management can enhance your CV. Attend workshops or courses in these areas to emphasise your capability to lead teams, efficiently manage resources, and stay on top of the latest software, tools, or trends. If you have completed a course, include this in it's own section and make sure it's relevant.

Mastering sales techniques, marketing strategies, or customer relationship skills showcases your commitment and enhances your readiness for a managerial role.

Key takeaways

Writing an impactful store manager CV involves highlighting critical competencies like leadership, team management, and strategic planning. Tailor your CV to align with your job targets and showcase relevant industry or product knowledge. If you’re just starting, consider an apprenticeship and gaining practical experience in part-time customer service or sales roles. To achieve a senior store manager position, improve your CV to get promoted and complete industry-specific certifications or training to showcase your expertise.

Next steps? 

Ready to land your dream job? Explore our career blog for insightful tips, the latest industry trends, and practical examples to enhance your CV. If time is a concern, our professional CV Builder can eliminate the hassle of final touches and save you valuable time. Discover more about our hassle-free and personalised CV Writing Service to enhance your job prospects and achieve your career goals.

FAQ 

What qualifications do I need to be a store manager in the UK? 

Qualifications vary but typically include a degree in business management or a related field. However, extensive practical experience in retail and progression within the industry is beneficial. Earn relevant certificates in business management to increase your chances of landing a job interview.

What are the best skills to write on a store manager CV in the UK? 

Critical competencies to include on your store manager CV sample are leadership, team management, sales analysis, customer service, inventory management, strategic planning, and financial skills. Demonstrate problem-solving and strong communication skills to develop vendor relations and customer interactions.

How do I become a store manager for the first time? 

Consider starting as a retail associate, store trainee or volunteer to gain experience. If you’re a student, consider pursuing higher relevant qualifications, completing courses, or enrolling on an apprenticeship to gain on-the-job experience. If you’re changing careers, leverage transferable skills from previous roles on your CV.

What is the best CV format in the UK for a store manager CV?

On your store manager CV sample, a chronological CV format is the most widely used and effective to present employers. This format outlines your work history, showcasing your career progression and relevant experiences. Use clear sections for your personal profile, education and skills to highlight your suitability for the role. 

How much do most store managers make?

Salaries vary based on location, experience, and the size of the store or company. In the UK, people in this role can earn from £20,000 for starters to £60,000 for more experienced and potential for higher earnings in larger retail chains.