Assistant Store Manager – KwaZulu-Natal
Our client seeks a proactive and motivated Assistant Store Manager to support the leadership team at their busy retail location in Durban. This role is ideal for an aspiring retail manager who is eager to develop their skills in operations, staff management, and sales performance. You will play a key role in ensuring the smooth running of the store, assisting with inventory, customer service, and team supervision in the vibrant KwaZulu-Natal province. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow within a reputable retail brand and contribute to its success.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist the Store Manager in all aspects of store operations, including sales, customer service, and staff management.
- Support the team in achieving sales targets and upholding customer service standards.
- Oversee daily opening and closing procedures as required.
- Manage inventory levels, including stock counts and replenishment.
- Ensure the store environment is clean, organized, and visually appealing.
- Provide training and coaching to sales associates to enhance their performance.
- Drive store turnover, achieve and exceed sales targets, and improve overall performance.
- Lead by example on the sales floor through active selling, styling, and customer engagement.
- Deliver outstanding customer service and create memorable shopping experiences.
- Manage, motivate, coach, and develop the store team.
- Ensure high standards of visual merchandising and store presentation.
- Oversee stock management, administration, and reporting.
- Implement Head Office strategies and operational procedures effectively.
- Handle customer queries and complaints professionally and efficiently.
- Support promotions, events, and festive season late trading.
- Maintain brand image, premium standards, and professional appearance at all times.
- Plan for succession and promote internal growth.
- Manage performance consistently and fairly.
- Foster a positive, engaging and productive working environment.
- Ensure strict adherence to company policies, systems, and procedures.
- Oversee daily administrative duties, including cash-ups, safe checks, alarm checks, and maintenance of admin files.
Requirements
- Minimum of 8 years experience in retail and sales.
- Previous management experience within a fashion or boutique retail environment.
- Proven track record in improving store performance and driving sales growth.
- Strong personal sales ability and a target-driven mindset.
- Excellent people management and leadership skills.
- Experience in high-end or premium fashion retail environments.
- Exposure to high-end, premium, or fashion-forward retail brands.
- Strong knowledge of merchandising, stock control, and retail operations.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Exceptional styling ability and strong product knowledge.
- Well-groomed, stylish, and professional presentation.
- Positive, solutions-driven attitude with the ability to perform under pressure.
- Flexible to work retail hours, including late trading during peak periods.
- Based in or around the Western Cape with reliable transport.
- Previous experience in a supervisory or management role within the retail sector.
- Demonstrated ability to drive sales and improve store performance.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Excellent communication and leadership capabilities.
- Familiarity with retail POS systems and inventory management.
- Commitment to providing outstanding customer service in a Durban retail setting.
- Strong knowledge of systems and processes, as well as a high level of computer proficiency.
- Excellent knowledge of luxury customer service.
- Able to identify and action issues proactively, without the need for micromanagement.
- Strong leadership with the ability to enforce company policies and procedures.
- Deadline-driven, reliable, and solutions-focused.
- Able to multitask effectively and remain calm under high-pressure conditions.
- Confident managing performance, delegating tasks, and leading by example.
- Confident enforcing policies, driving performance, and taking initiative without the need for micromanagement.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Familiarity with retail POS systems and inventory management software.
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings and weekends, across KwaZulu-Natal.
- Candidate must be willing to relocate anywhere in KwaZulu Natal.
- Requirement: 5-10 years of retail management experience.
- Requirement: Extremely organised with excellent memory recall.
- Hire is not entry level.
Benefits
- Competitive salary with potential for bonuses based on store performance.
- Employee discounts on merchandise.
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement into store management.
- Exposure to diverse retail operations and management practices.
- A collaborative team environment focused on achieving collective success.
- Staff discounts on a wide range of products.
- Opportunities for training and career development in retail management.
- Contribution to a medical scheme and retirement annuity.
- Collaborative and supportive team atmosphere in Durban.
- Access to ongoing training and skill-building workshops.
- Dynamic and collaborative work environment focused on achieving collective success.
Working Hours
Retail hours, including weekends and public holidays.