General Manager - Fuel and Convenience Retail

Merand Recruitment; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking an experienced General Manager to oversee operations at a busy service station in Stellenbosch. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years' experience in fuel retail or convenience management. Responsibilities include leading a diverse team, ensuring safety and compliance, driving profitability, and maintaining exceptional customer service levels. This is a critical leadership role requiring strong financial acumen and operational insight.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in fuel retail, convenience, or QSR management.
• Proven ability to lead a diverse team and manage performance.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a passion for customer satisfaction.
• Competence in budgeting, reconciliations, and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all site operations across the forecourt, convenience store, and coffee shop.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the site team.
• Track site-wide performance for sales growth.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols.
• Maintain exceptional customer service levels.

Skills

Leadership

Customer Service

Financial Acumen

Communication

Team Management

Tools

MS Office (Excel)

POS Systems

Inventory Systems

Job description

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic General Manager to oversee the full operations of a busy service station – including the fuel forecourt, convenience store, and in-store coffee shop. The ideal candidate will provide strong leadership, ensure smooth day-to-day operations, and drive profitability while maintaining world-class safety and service standards.

Operational Leadership

• Oversee all site operations across the forecourt, convenience store, and coffee shop.
• Support and guide the Convenience Manager and forecourt supervisors to meet operational, safety, and service goals.
• Ensure all daily checklists, HSSE routines, and compliance standards are consistently maintained.

Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and motivate the site team through direct reports (Convenience Manager and forecourt supervisors).
• Ensure efficient staffing, scheduling, and performance management.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and clear communication across departments.

Stock & Inventory Control

• Oversee stock management processes across the site.
• Monitor wet-stock reconciliations, conduct periodic audits, and ensure accurate reporting.
• Review stock and sales data to control ordering, reduce wastage, and optimize profit margins.

Sales & Profitability

• Track site-wide performance and identify opportunities for sales growth.
• Implement pricing strategies, promotions, and operational improvements to meet targets.
• Drive profitability through sound financial control and cost management.

Customer Experience

• Maintain exceptional customer service levels across all departments.
• Train staff on company service standards and handle escalated customer issues professionally.
• Foster a welcoming, customer-first environment at all times.

Compliance & Safety (HSSE)

• Act as the site’s primary Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) representative.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols and local regulatory standards.
• Conduct regular inspections and implement corrective actions where needed.

Financial Management

• Oversee daily and monthly financial reconciliations and reporting.
• Consolidate operational and financial data from department heads for submission to head office.
• Ensure robust cash handling and point-of-sale control measures.

Marketing & Merchandising

• Supervise merchandising and promotional execution within the shop and café.
• Coordinate with head office and suppliers for in-store campaigns and product displays.
• Monitor product rotation and maintain brand presentation standards.

Maintenance & Site Upkeep

• Ensure all facilities and equipment are well-maintained and operational.
• Manage repairs and service schedules for pumps, POS systems, refrigeration, and coffee machines.
• Maintain the site’s appearance to brand standards (forecourt, restrooms, shop, and café).

External Relations

• Liaise with Territory Managers, franchise partners, suppliers, and service providers.
• Represent the site in meetings and audits, maintaining positive stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience: Minimum 5 years’ experience in fuel retail, convenience, or QSR management. Experience in managing a busy service station with a café or food service component is highly advantageous.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead a diverse team, manage performance, and foster a positive work culture.
• Customer Service: Strong interpersonal skills with a passion for customer satisfaction.
• Financial Acumen: Competence in budgeting, reconciliations, and financial reporting.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in MS Office (especially Excel) and experienced in POS and inventory systems.
• ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED