Retail Operations Manager

Job Title: Retail Operations Manager

Main Purpose of Job:

To oversee the operational performance of multiple retail locations, ensuring consistent standards, commercial efficiency, and team development across all stores.

Relationships:

• Reports to: Senior Executive Manager and CEO
• Responsible for: Store Managers and all store-based staff
• Liaises with: HR Manager, Finance Manager, Head Office Departments

Main tasks of job:

• Lead and support operational excellence across a network of 5 SPAR stores.
• Conduct regular store visits with structured operational audits and follow-ups.
• Monitor and uphold cleaning, presentation, and hygiene standards.
• Allocate and supervise workloads, monitor team performance and productivity through regular site reviews.
• Ensure strict compliance with health and safety regulations in-store.
• Oversee the correct use of store equipment, systems, and materials.
• Conduct stock checks and manage store consumables and supplies.
• Organise and oversee training, including induction and on-the-job learning for new and existing staff.
• Work closely with HR to address staffing, training, and disciplinary matters.
• Enforce HACCP and food safety compliance across all store sites.
• Drive awareness and understanding of company policies and safety protocols.
• Action CAPA plans for any audit non-conformances.
• Support business development by working with Store Managers on local engagement initiatives and LSM (Local Store Marketing) plans.
• Lead succession planning, recruitment, and ongoing team development to support growth.
• Oversee significant employee or customer issues that may affect store operations or brand reputation.
• Collaborate with Head Office functions including finance, IT, and compliance.
• Review and act on KPI metrics: sales, labour budgets, margins, stock levels, and wastage.
• Manage time and resources efficiently to meet operational goals.
• Continuously evaluate and refine store operational procedures to improve performance.
• Attend weekly head office management meetings and contribute proactively.
• Ensure accurate store billing and liaison with finance on cost-related issues.
• Maintain consistent use of internal systems (e.g. Station Master, MyStaff).
• Build and maintain a capable, customer-centric workforce.
• Ensure the implementation of all health & safety measures to reduce incidents.
• Respond to operational challenges as they arise.
• Oversee and ensure proper incident/accident reporting and follow-up.
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation and company procedures.
• Maintain accurate records across all operational metrics, including attendance, timesheets, and meetings.
• Handle local-level disciplinary or grievance issues in line with policy and in communication with HR.
• Perform other duties as required, in line with evolving organisational goals.

Your Profile:

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a senior retail management or multi-site operations role.
• Strong commercial and financial understanding, with ability to interpret store performance data.
• Strategic thinker with hands-on execution ability.
• Proven leadership capability—able to coach, mentor, and develop store teams.
• Highly organised with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong customer service ethos and a record of delivering operational consistency.
• Demonstrable success in driving store standards, compliance, and efficiency.
• Holds a business qualification or has equivalent practical commercial experience.
• Inspires and motivates others with clear, structured leadership and support.
• Confident and assertive in communicating objectives and maintaining accountability.
• Proficient in coaching store teams toward achieving KPIs and performance targets.
• Full, clean driving licence required.

Benefits:

• Competitive fortnightly Salary for the Area Manager - Paid fortnightly
• Access to Employment Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Company Phone
• Company Laptop
• Self-rostering
• Dynamic work environment
• Excellent opportunities for career progression

This position will suit an individual who is highly motivated, hardworking with excellent communication and management skills.

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