If you’re applying for an Assistant Manager position at CeX (Complete Entertainment Exchange), you’re aiming for a key leadership role within one of the UK’s most recognized technology and entertainment retailers. As an Assistant Manager, you’re expected to support the Store Manager in daily operations, drive sales, motivate staff, ensure excellent customer service, and uphold company standards.
The typical salary for a CeX Assistant Manager ranges between £22,000 and £26,000 per year, depending on experience and location, along with performance bonuses and staff benefits. This role is vital for maintaining store efficiency, ensuring profitability, and creating a motivating work environment.
Preparing well for your interview is essential to show you’re ready to take on this exciting challenge. Below are 20 commonly asked CeX Assistant Manager interview questions and suggested answers to help you stand out from the competition.
1. Tell us about yourself.
This question sets the tone. Keep it professional and relevant to the role.
Answer: “I’ve worked in retail for over five years, starting as a sales assistant and working my way up to supervisor. I’m passionate about team leadership, technology, and delivering top-tier customer service. I admire CeX’s unique mix of tech and trade-in business and am excited to bring my experience to this environment.”
2. Why do you want to work for CeX?
Demonstrate your knowledge of the company.
Answer: “CeX stands out for its trade-in model and focus on sustainability through reuse. I’ve been a customer myself and appreciate how tech-savvy and customer-focused the brand is. I’d love to contribute to a company that balances value, tech, and culture.”
3. What experience do you have in managing or supervising a team?
Highlight leadership roles.
Answer: “As a retail supervisor, I managed a team of 8, handling rotas, staff training, and performance reviews. I helped improve team morale and sales figures by implementing clear goals and celebrating achievements.”
4. How would you handle a conflict between two staff members?
They want to know you can mediate professionally.
Answer: “I’d listen to both sides individually to understand the issue, then mediate a conversation to find common ground. If necessary, I’d follow HR procedures to resolve it fairly and keep the team focused.”
5. How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced retail environment?
Show organization and time management.
Answer: “I categorize tasks by urgency and importance, delegate when appropriate, and use scheduling tools to ensure key tasks like stock checks or till reports are completed without affecting customer service.”
6. Describe a time you improved sales or performance in your previous role.
Results matter here.
Answer: “At my last store, I introduced a weekly sales leaderboard and short daily team huddles to boost motivation. Sales increased by 18% in two months.”
7. What do you know about CeX’s products and services?
Research is key.
Answer: “CeX deals in second-hand tech, games, phones, DVDs, and computing gear. I also know you offer warranties, grading, and cash or voucher trade-in options.”
8. How would you deal with a dissatisfied customer?
Customer service skills are a priority.
Answer: “I’d listen actively, remain calm, apologize if appropriate, and offer a resolution aligned with company policy. I aim to turn negative experiences into positive outcomes.”
9. Describe your leadership style.
Be honest but align it with retail.
Answer: “I’m a supportive and hands-on leader. I believe in setting clear expectations, giving feedback, and recognizing achievements. I lead by example, especially during busy hours.”
10. How would you motivate your team during a tough sales week?
This reflects on morale and creativity.
Answer: “I’d set achievable short-term goals, offer small incentives, and keep energy high with encouragement and transparency. I also ask for ideas to make staff feel involved.”
11. How comfortable are you with technology and system tools?
Tech is central to CeX’s business.
Answer: “Very comfortable—I’ve used POS systems, stock tracking software, and scheduling tools. I also enjoy learning new systems and troubleshooting tech-related issues.”
12. How do you handle stress during peak times like Christmas?
Expect a lot of pressure at retail peak times.
Answer: “I stay calm, plan ahead with stock and staffing, and keep communication open. I also make sure to keep the team motivated and focused, even when it’s hectic.”
13. How would you contribute to reducing theft and fraud in the store?
They’re looking for awareness and initiative.
Answer: “By ensuring staff follow till protocols, monitoring suspicious behavior, training the team on loss prevention, and maintaining a strong floor presence.”
14. What would you do if a staff member repeatedly arrived late?
They want to know you’re fair but firm.
Answer: “I’d speak to them privately to understand the cause, remind them of expectations, and monitor for improvement. If it continued, I’d follow the disciplinary process.”
15. Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
Use a real example.
Answer: “Once, a customer needed a last-minute birthday gift. I helped them find the right product, got it gift-wrapped, and arranged a courier pickup the same day.”
16. What would you do if you noticed another manager was breaking store policy?
Ethics are important.
Answer: “I’d gather the facts and approach them privately to understand. If it continued or was serious, I’d report it to senior management per the whistleblowing policy.”
17. How do you handle feedback from your manager?
Shows your growth mindset.
Answer: “I welcome feedback and see it as a tool for growth. I apply it quickly and ask for follow-up to ensure improvement.”
18. What’s your biggest weakness?
Be honest but constructive.
Answer: “I can be overly detail-oriented, which sometimes slows me down. But I’ve learned to balance quality with efficiency through planning.”
19. How would you help drive repeat customer visits?
Customer retention is key.
Answer: “By ensuring every visit is positive, promoting the trade-in model, signing up customers to newsletters, and creating rapport so they return for advice and purchases.”
20. Why should we hire you for this Assistant Manager role?
Sell yourself!
Answer: “I have the retail experience, leadership skills, and passion for tech that CeX values. I’m driven, adaptable, and ready to help your store succeed.”
Final Interview Coaching Tips for Success
Preparing for an interview goes beyond memorizing answers. Here are a few final coaching tips to help you truly shine:
Research CeX thoroughly – visit the store, browse the website, and understand the trade-in process.
Dress smartly, even if the role has a casual dress code. Show you’re taking it seriously.
Bring your own questions – ask about team culture, training, or growth paths.
Practice with a friend or mirror – rehearse your answers to improve delivery and confidence.
Be yourself – authenticity helps you connect with your interviewer.
Every interview is a chance to grow. Whether you land the job or not, every step makes you stronger. Good luck—you’ve got this!
