Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world's most admired and innovative brands.
By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day.
Overview Of The Role:
The General Manager at Dubai Festival Plaza will oversee all aspects of center management to ensure high standards are met across operations, financial performance, marketing, community relations, and human resources. This role requires strong leadership to manage the shopping center's day-to-day functions and achieve business objectives in revenue and expenditure.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare the Retail Operations budget including projections for capital, manpower, operating expenditure, and income forecast for Board review.
- Instigate a service charge budget and matrix to ensure all operational expenditure is recoverable from tenants, audited at year end per international standards.
- Assist in the preparation and review of monthly and annual financial reports, including re-forecasting, P&L, lease abstracting, and budgeting.
- Oversee the condition and maintenance programs of key asset systems for commercial lifespan and salvage value optimization.
- Oversee mall marketing and associated events to ensure proper marketing engagement with retailers to factor footfall and sales into events.
- Enhance guest experience by handling guest complaints and implementing effective solutions.
- Facilitate the management of the marketing program alongside the Sr. General Manager and Marketing Manager to maintain innovative, targeted, and effective marketing initiatives.
- Maintain positive relationships within the local community and stay informed about political and regulatory changes impacting Centre operations.
- Ensure excellent communication and lease compliance with all tenants through regular meetings and visits.
- Supervise and provide direction for the concierge department, specialty leasing department, administrative assistant, and receptionist.
- Evaluate property needs and recommend or execute improvements to maintain high operational standards.
- Conduct regular employee performance appraisals, identify training needs, and request external training when applicable to ensure motivation and high work standards.
- Compile and present reports on tenants, income, expenditure, position, and competition to the company, ensuring these reflect up-to-date information from all available sources.
Requirements:
- Leadership and strong management skills.
- Financial acumen with the ability to prepare and manage budgets.
- Exceptional communication skills to effectively liaise with tenants and corporate departments.
- Proven ability in conflict resolution and maintaining operational excellence.
- Degree in Business Administration with specialization in Marketing & Real Estate.
- Masters in Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing, Accounting preferred.
- 10-15 years of relevant experience, with at least 5-7 years in top management of shopping centers or retail management.
- Knowledge of leasing and marketing strategy, implementation, and operation.
Al-Futtaim Malls provides development and asset management expertise, specializing in building retail-led super regional malls in prime locations across MENA and beyond.