Clinique 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.

Estée Lauder Companies seeks a dynamic Counter Manager for the Clinique counter at John Lewis Milton Keynes to lead a retail sales team and achieve all sales, customer service, and operational objectives. This first-level management role offers accountability for business planning execution, customer relationship management, and team development, providing exposure to consumer insights, event management, and front-line marketing that position high performers for advancement within the prestige beauty sector.

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
• Plan and deliver impactful in-store events and campaigns
• Manage customer relationship initiatives to build brand loyalty
• Hold team members accountable for performance while fostering a high-performing culture
• Manage inventory, operations, and compliance at point of sale
• Analyze consumer insights and market data to inform business planning and promotions

Qualifications

• Proven retail sales experience with demonstrated results and targets exceeded
• Team leadership experience in a fast-paced retail environment
• Strategic planning and execution capability
• Financial acumen including budget development and resource management
• Proficiency with computerized systems, email, and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to win people over
• Quality customer service orientation and ability to handle difficult situations diplomatically
• High attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a cohesive team

Skills

Experience

Proven leadership, coaching, and business management experience gained in a fast-paced retail environment. Experience in strategic planning and execution as well as financial management is essential. The candidate should demonstrate a track record of meeting and exceeding sales and service targets.

Education

No specific educational qualifications required; however, secondary education and relevant retail management training or certifications are 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.