Store Manager Designate – Retail Leadership Role

About the role

Vision Express is seeking a Store Manager Designate for its Reading area. This position offers a fast‑track pathway to a full Store Manager role, allowing you to support multiple stores, develop leadership skills and deliver outstanding customer experiences within a leading optical retailer.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the day‑to‑day leadership of Vision Express stores across the Reading region.
• Provide exceptional customer service and create memorable experiences for clients.
• Coach, mentor and develop store teams to achieve performance targets.
• Drive commercial performance through people leadership and operational excellence.
• Build strong relationships with colleagues and stakeholders across several locations.
• Take ownership of priority projects and step into leadership duties as required.
• Adapt quickly to different store environments and support teams through change and growth.

Required profile

• Previous experience as a Supervisor, Team Leader, Assistant Store Manager or similar leadership role.
• Background in retail, hospitality or another customer‑focused environment.
• Ambition to progress into a Store Manager position and build a long‑term leadership career.
• Excellent customer service orientation with a genuine passion for helping people.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to motivate and inspire others.

Required skills

What we offer

• Structured development programme with clear progression to Store Manager.
• Competitive salary plus monthly bonus opportunity.
• £350 credit towards frames or designer sunglasses and unlimited lens spend.
• 33 days holiday with buy/sell options.
• Family & friends discounts and free eye tests.
• Employee wellbeing support and access to the OneSight Foundation.
• Ongoing learning and development within a leading UK optical retailer.