Claire Hillyard

Retail Professional experienced in delivering exceptional customer service and maintaining organised, visually appealing store environments. Drove sales through strong product knowledge and effective communication, while engaging with customers to build rapport and foster loyalty. Maintained positive atmosphere, handled transactions smoothly, and resolved issues promptly to meet sales targets and ensure customer satisfaction.

Sales Assistant - Waitrose - Eastbourne, East Sussex

(2026-05)

• Cultivate excellent customer relationships by providing helpful, friendly and attentive service.
• Processed sales transactions accurately, handling cash and card payments efficiently.
• Maintained a tidy and safe shopping environment, following health and safety guidelines.
• Kept shelves neat, clean and organised through visual merchandising.

Retail Assistant - Procook - Eastbourne, East Sussex

(2025-10 - 2026-05)

• Engage customers to enhance in-store experience and provide outstanding customer service.
• Take interest in customers' needs and concerns to provide thoughtful advice and product recommendations.
• Help in setup of special events and promotional activities within store.
• Assist in stock replenishment to maintain store appearance.
• Carry out back-of-house maintenance, for clear, easy-to-navigate stockroom management.

Sales Assistant - The Works - Eastbourne, East Sussex

(2024-08 - 2025-10)

• Assisted customers with product selection and sales, recommending items to increase transaction value.
• Managed till operations smoothly, reducing waiting time for customers.
• Fostered a welcoming store environment by maintaining clean and well-organised displays.
• Ensured stock replenishment in a timely manner to maintain product availability.
• Conducted daily inventory checks to manage stock levels accurately.
• Collaborated effectively with team members to meet sales targets.
• Trained new staff members, fostering a supportive working environment.

Deputy Manager - Grapetree - Eastbourne, East Sussex

(2015-10 - 2020-10)

• Ensured smooth store operations by effectively managing shifts.
• Maximised sales opportunities by suggesting additional products suitably matched to customer needs.
• Managed key control systems, safeguarding store access and security.
• Led by example, actively managing store environment, fostering team positivity and driving sales.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction through prompt and professional service.
• Developed strong customer relationships, resulting in a high rate of repeat customers.
• Complied diligently with all health and safety regulations-provided a safer environment for staff and customers alike.
• Coordinated with the team on special projects, achieving desired outcomes efficiently.
• Upheld highest levels of cleanliness throughout store premises for a pleasant shopping atmosphere..
• Maintained visual merchandising standards to attract potential customers.
• Worked with key partners on shipment processing, restocking and product placement in line with visual and display standards.

Personnel Manager/Department Manager - Tesco/ Sainsbury's/Bluebird - London

(1989-10 - 2003-02)

I started in Retail at the age of 16, as a Saturday girl, and within 6 months, I began training new starters and joined the Management team. After a few years, I became a Food Hall Manager at an exclusive venture on the Kings Road, Chelsea, called The Bluebird. I was then headhunted by a company that opened a wine museum called Vinopolis.

The company went into liquidation and after being made redundant, I joined Tesco and trained as a Personnel Manager. I held that position until I had my first child in 2003 and became a SAHM.

Ursuline Convent, Wimbledon, London