Job Description: Store Assistant (Tobacco Retail Store – Premium Cigar Brand)
Job Title: Store Assistant
Department: Retail Operations / Sales
Reports To: Store Supervisor / Store Manager
Job Summary
The Store Assistant is responsible for providing excellent customer service, supporting daily retail operations, maintaining product displays, and assisting customers with premium cigar and tobacco product selections. The role ensures a welcoming shopping environment, accurate inventory management, and compliance with all applicable tobacco sales regulations and company policies.
Key Responsibilities
Customer Service & Sales
- Greet customers and provide a professional, personalized shopping experience.
- Assist customers with product inquiries and selections based on their preferences.
- Explain product features, origins, flavor profiles, and brand information.
- Promote store products, special offers, and loyalty programs.
- Support the achievement of sales targets and customer satisfaction goals.
Store Operations
- Maintain store cleanliness, organization, and visual merchandising standards.
- Restock shelves, display units, and humidor inventory as required.
- Monitor product presentation and ensure pricing labels are accurate.
- Assist with opening and closing store procedures.
- Process sales transactions accurately using the point-of-sale (POS) system.
Inventory Management
- Receive, unpack, and organize incoming stock deliveries.
- Conduct stock counts and assist with inventory audits.
- Monitor inventory levels and report low-stock items to management.
- Ensure proper storage conditions for premium cigars and tobacco products.
- Assist in maintaining inventory records and stock movement reports.
Product Care & Humidor Maintenance
- Monitor humidor conditions, including temperature and humidity levels.
- Ensure premium cigars are stored and displayed according to company standards.
- Report any product quality concerns or storage issues.
- Assist in maintaining product freshness and presentation quality.
Compliance & Loss Prevention
- Verify customer age and ensure compliance with local tobacco sales laws and regulations.
- Follow company procedures regarding restricted product sales.
- Support loss prevention measures and report suspicious activities.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding company operations and customer information.
Administration & Reporting
- Assist in preparing daily sales and inventory reports.
- Maintain accurate transaction and stock records.
- Support store management with administrative tasks as required.
- Communicate customer feedback and operational issues to supervisors.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Previous experience in retail sales, customer service, hospitality, or luxury retail is preferred.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Basic computer and POS system knowledge.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and public holidays.
- Professional appearance and customer-focused attitude.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in premium retail, tobacco, cigar, luxury goods, or specialty product sales.
- Knowledge of premium cigar brands, tobacco products, and accessories.
- Experience with inventory management systems.
- Multilingual communication skills.
Key Competencies
- Customer Service Excellence
- Retail Sales Skills
- Product Knowledge
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Inventory Management
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
- Cash Handling Accuracy
- Time Management
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Achievement of individual and store sales targets
- Customer satisfaction and service quality ratings
- Accuracy of inventory and stock records
- Compliance with tobacco sales regulations
- Product presentation and merchandising standards
- Transaction accuracy and cash handling performance
- Attendance, punctuality, and teamwork
Work Environment
- Retail store environment specializing in premium cigars, tobacco products, and related accessories.
- Requires standing for extended periods and assisting customers throughout the day.
- May involve handling stock deliveries, merchandising displays, and maintaining humidified storage areas.
- Flexible work schedules, including weekends, evenings, and holidays, may be required.