Clinique Counter Lead

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 a dynamic Counter Lead to manage the beauty counter at Boots Reading, driving sales performance, team development, and exceptional customer experiences. This first-level management role provides accountability for business planning, customer relationship management, in-store events, and the leadership of a high-performing sales team. The successful candidate will operate as the chief executive of the counter, combining strategic retail execution with hands-on team coaching to achieve sales, service, and operational targets.

Role & Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Sales Associates to achieve sales, customer service, and operational targets
• Create and execute an agile business plan focused on customer recruitment and retention through strategic targeting and impactful in-store events
• Manage all aspects of counter operations including inventory, compliance, and performance metrics
• Drive exceptional customer relationship management and personalized service delivery at point of sale
• Develop financial plans, manage counter budgets, and optimize resource allocation
• Conduct recruitment, performance management, and accountability for team members
• Execute front-line marketing initiatives and manage customer insights to inform business decisions

Qualifications

• Proven leadership and team management experience in a retail environment
• Demonstrated coaching and development skills for direct reports
• Business management and strategic planning experience
• Retail sales experience with a track record of results
• Ability to develop financial plans and manage resources effectively
• Proficiency with computerized systems including email and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong interpersonal abilities
• Ability to handle difficult customer service situations with diplomacy and tact
• High attention to detail and organizational capabilities
• Ability to work both autonomously and collaboratively within a team

Skills

Experience

Proven leadership, coaching, and business management skills gained in a fast-paced retail environment. Experience in strategic planning and execution required. Degree of experience dependent on business and store size.

Education

Retail sales experience and team leadership background expected; educational qualifications not explicitly specified.

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.