Clinique Assistant Counter Manager

About Clinique

Clinique, founded in 1968 and part of The Estée Lauder Companies, is a pioneering prestige beauty brand built on dermatologist-developed skincare, rigorous testing, and a promise of effective, individualized care. As an employer, Clinique offers professionals the opportunity to contribute to a globally respected house where science, service, and innovation meet. Its teams are united by a commitment to skin expertise, inclusive beauty, and trusted client relationships, whether in retail, education, marketing, product development, or corporate functions. Employees join a culture that values precision, learning, collaboration, and the confidence that comes from helping people achieve healthy, radiant skin.

Clinique seeks an inspirational Assistant Counter Manager to support retail store operations and drive sales performance at a prestigious beauty counter. This role involves leading and coaching a team of Sales Associates, managing inventory and cash reconciliation, and delivering exceptional customer service in a fast-paced prestige beauty environment.

Role & Responsibilities

• Support the Store Manager in leading, coaching, and developing Sales Associates to achieve sales, customer service, and operational targets
• Oversee retail operations including inventory management, stock control, and cash reconciliation
• Deliver inspirational, personalized customer service and ensure team adherence to customer service standards
• Manage point-of-sale transactions and systems, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Work flexible retail hours including days, evenings, weekends, and special promotional events
• Monitor and analyze sales performance data to identify opportunities for improvement
• Maintain a professional appearance and uphold the brand standards of Clinique

Qualifications

• Proven retail experience, preferably within cosmetics or prestige beauty
• Demonstrated supervisory and team coaching experience with a track record of mentoring others to achieve targets
• Experience with retail point-of-sale software systems
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Strong inventory management and cash reconciliation skills
• Ability to work flexible retail hours, including evenings, weekends, and special events
• Right to live and work in South Africa (proof required if invited for interview)

Skills

Experience

Proven supervisory and retail operations experience in a fast-paced environment, with demonstrable success in coaching and mentoring team members to achieve sales and customer service objectives. Prior experience in cosmetics or prestige beauty retail is preferred.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent; further retail management or customer service qualifications would be advantageous.

Culture

Clinique fosters a science-led, service-oriented workplace where teams are encouraged to combine dermatological expertise with empathy and personalized care. As part of a global prestige beauty environment, the brand values inclusivity, continuous learning, and high standards of professionalism, empowering employees to help clients feel confident in their skin.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.