About Borders Pet Rescue

Borders Pet Rescue (BPR) is a trusted and much-loved animal welfare charity serving the Scottish Borders since 1988. From our Rescue Centre in Earlston, our dedicated team of staff and volunteers cares for animals in need and works tirelessly to help them find safe, loving homes.

The charity also operates two successful retail shops in Galashiels and Kelso. These shops are run by passionate and committed staff and volunteers, and they provide the main source of sustainable income that enables our rescue and rehoming work.

Demand for our services has never been greater, with increasing numbers of animals requiring our help. To meet this challenge, the charity has entered an exciting period of growth and development, aligned with our 2024–2027 Strategy. As part of this next chapter, we are creating a brand-new role to strengthen, support, and grow our retail operation.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Charity Manager, the Retail Operations Manager will provide strategic leadership and day-to-day support to our charity shops in Kelso and Galashiels. You will work closely with Shop Managers to maximise income generation, enhance customer experience, and ensure the smooth and effective running of all retail operations.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and motivated retail professional — ideally with charity retail experience — who is passionate about animal welfare and keen to make a meaningful difference.

Key Responsibilities

Retail Leadership & Performance

• Provide proactive leadership, guidance, and support to shop managers, staff, and volunteers
• Develop and implement sales strategies to drive income growth across both shops
• Monitor and analyse shop performance, identifying opportunities for improvement
• Ensure effective merchandising, stock sourcing, pricing, and presentation
• Embed best practice in line with Charity Retail Association standards (BPR is a proud member)

Strategic Retail Development

• Create and deliver a Retail Strategy aligned with the BPR 2024–2027 organisational strategy
• Lead the introduction and growth of online sales channels
• Identify and develop new retail income streams and opportunities
• Contribute to long-term sustainability planning for the charity

People Management & Development

• Support the recruitment, onboarding, and retention of shop volunteers
• Assist with staff recruitment where required
• Develop and coordinate training programmes for staff and volunteers
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive team culture

Compliance & Operations

• Ensure shops meet legal, financial, and health and safety requirements
• Maintain strong financial controls and accurate reporting
• Work collaboratively with the Charity Manager and wider team

About You

We are looking for someone who brings:

• Experience in retail management — charity retail experience is highly desirable
• A proven track record of achieving sales growth and operational improvement
• Excellent people-management and motivational skills
• Strong organisational, planning, and problem-solving ability
• Confidence working both strategically and hands-on
• A collaborative, positive, and proactive approach
• A genuine commitment to the mission and values of Borders Pet Rescue

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in the future development of a small but impactful animal welfare charity — helping create a stronger retail presence that directly supports animals in need across the Scottish Borders.