Assistant Driver job at Shoprite Group of Companies

Assistant Driver job at Shoprite Group of Companies

Job Profile: Display Assistant (Driver) at Shoprite Group of Companies
Reference Number: SHO241008-4
Job Title: Display Assistant (Driver)
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Closing Date: November 7, 2024

The role of Display Assistant (Driver) at the Shoprite Group of Companies presents an exciting opportunity for individuals who enjoy a blend of logistical responsibility, customer service, and hands-on creative tasks. This position is vital to the company’s marketing operations, as it directly contributes to the presentation of the brand in stores and at special events. As a Display Assistant (Driver), the successful candidate will have the critical responsibility of transporting materials, setting up displays, and ensuring that the aesthetic of the Shoprite brand is well-represented.

Key Responsibilities

1. Transportation and Logistics:

The primary responsibility of this role involves transporting equipment to different locations, including in-store setups, outdoor displays, and event sites. The driver will be tasked with collecting items such as branded posters, display equipment, and signage from suppliers, and delivering them to various locations in a timely manner.

This involves careful planning to ensure that routes are chosen for maximum efficiency, and that all deliveries are made within stipulated timeframes. The ability to manage logistical challenges, such as traffic, time constraints, and road conditions, will be crucial to success in this role.

2. Setting Up Displays:

Once the equipment reaches its destination, the Display Assistant will set up displays as per company guidelines. This includes arranging posters in store windows, setting up event booths, assembling branded gazebos, and placing promotional materials. The candidate will be expected to make sure that all displays are set up to the highest standards, ensuring that they reflect the company’s brand image and appeal to customers.

Setting up may also involve working with other team members or third-party suppliers to ensure that everything is properly installed and functioning, especially during events or promotional campaigns.

3. Dismantling Displays:

After the displays have fulfilled their purpose, the Display Assistant will be responsible for dismantling them. This includes safely disassembling the posters, removing the display stands, and ensuring that all materials are properly packed and returned to storage or sent back to suppliers.

Dismantling requires careful attention to detail to ensure that no equipment is damaged during the process. It is also necessary to keep track of all items to ensure they are available for future events or setups.

4. Maintaining the Vehicle:

Since this role involves frequent travel, the Display Assistant is also responsible for maintaining the vehicle assigned to them. Regular checks on the condition of the vehicle, including fuel levels, tire pressure, and overall cleanliness, are part of the role. Proper care of the vehicle ensures that the candidate can perform their duties efficiently and without delays.

The driver must also ensure that the vehicle complies with legal requirements and that it is used safely and responsibly, following all traffic laws and safety guidelines.

5. Event Setups:

In addition to regular store displays, the role also includes supporting special events. This can involve setting up branded gazebos, distributing flyers, erecting telescopic banners, and other promotional materials. The Display Assistant may be required to interact with event staff or vendors to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The ability to stay organized during events, manage time efficiently, and handle any challenges that arise will be key to success in these situations.

6. Poster Printing and Framing:

For in-store displays, the Display Assistant is expected to be involved in the preparation of posters. This includes printing the posters and inserting them into frames. Attention to detail is required to ensure that the posters are printed clearly and fit properly into the frames, as the displays must be visually appealing and professional.

7. Weekend and Holiday Work:

Given the nature of the retail and event industry, the Display Assistant may be required to work on weekends or public holidays. This is essential to ensure that displays are set up or maintained during peak retail periods, or to meet deadlines for special events.

Qualifications and Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following qualifications and attributes:

• Driver’s License – Code 8: A valid Code 8 driver’s license is a basic requirement for this role, as the candidate will be responsible for transporting equipment over various distances.
• Grade 12 Education: A minimum of a Grade 12 qualification or equivalent is necessary to ensure that the candidate can meet the job’s documentation and communication requirements.
• PDP (PrDP) Desirable: A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is desirable, especially for candidates who will be driving a vehicle carrying larger loads or transporting goods in compliance with public transport regulations.
• Trustworthy and Reliable: The successful candidate must demonstrate a high level of trustworthiness, as they will be handling valuable display materials and representing the company during deliveries and events. Being reliable and punctual will be essential to meet the demands of the job.
• Physically Fit: Since the job requires lifting, setting up, and dismantling displays, physical fitness is important. The candidate must be capable of carrying out physical tasks for extended periods, sometimes in challenging weather conditions.
• Strong Interpersonal Skills: Communication and relationship-building skills are essential for engaging with suppliers, event organizers, and other team members. The Display Assistant will be expected to maintain professional interactions and contribute positively to the company’s reputation.
• Ability to Work Independently and as Part of a Team: While the Display Assistant may be working independently for much of the day, they must also collaborate with store staff, suppliers, and event organizers to ensure that displays are set up and maintained effectively.
• Attention to Detail: The candidate must possess an eye for detail to ensure that all displays are set up correctly, posters are framed properly, and that the overall presentation meets the company’s standards.

Experience and Skills

While prior experience in display setups or similar roles can be beneficial, the following skills and experiences will be advantageous for the role:

• Experience with Display Setups: Familiarity with arranging displays, assembling promotional materials, and working with visual merchandising concepts will be an asset. This may include experience in retail, event planning, or other promotional environments.
• Route Planning and Time Management: Previous experience with route planning for efficient deliveries will be helpful. The Display Assistant will need to plan and optimize delivery routes, ensuring that all tasks are completed on time.
• Event Setup Experience: Any prior experience in setting up for corporate events, trade shows, or retail promotions will be beneficial. Understanding the logistics of setting up booths, stages, or exhibitions will be an advantage.
• Basic Technical Skills: A basic understanding of printers and frame setups is necessary for this role, especially when preparing posters and other print materials for displays.
• Customer Service Experience: As the Display Assistant will often be interacting with store managers, suppliers, and event staff, experience in customer service and maintaining positive relationships with external stakeholders is important.

Knowledge and Skills

• Safe Driving Practices: The Display Assistant must have a comprehensive understanding of road safety regulations, including the ability to navigate through various road conditions and adapt to driving long distances. Adherence to traffic laws and the ability to drive safely and efficiently are critical.
• Strong Communication Skills: Clear communication is essential when interacting with suppliers, store managers, and event staff. Being able to express ideas clearly and professionally helps maintain a positive image of the company and ensures smooth operations.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Display setups and transport logistics often involve dealing with unexpected issues, such as delays, equipment malfunctions, or challenges with the setup environment. Being able to think on your feet and find effective solutions will be essential.

Compensation and Benefits

As a permanent, full-time position, the Display Assistant (Driver) will receive a competitive salary that aligns with the company’s compensation structures. Benefits typically include healthcare, retirement savings plans, and other company-specific perks. Since the role requires weekend and holiday work, additional benefits such as overtime pay or time off in lieu may be offered to ensure the employee is fairly compensated for their time.

Working Environment

The position involves working both indoors and outdoors, depending on the task at hand. The Display Assistant will often be on the road, traveling to different locations across Cape Town or potentially even further afield, depending on the needs of the company’s events and store setups. The job can be physically demanding, especially when lifting or setting up heavy display materials.

Conclusion

The Display Assistant (Driver) role at Shoprite Group of Companies offers a unique and varied career path for individuals who enjoy a combination of driving, logistics, customer interaction, and hands-on display setup. This is an essential role that ensures the company’s in-store and event displays are set up efficiently and professionally, enhancing the brand’s presence in the retail space and beyond. If you meet the qualifications, have the required experience, and are looking for a dynamic position with opportunities for growth, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.