Operations Director - Retail Sector

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical and dental benefits

Employee discounts

Pension fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch is seeking an experienced Operations Director to oversee all retail outlets in the Western Cape, driving efficiency, customer experience, and sales targets across a multi‑site network.

You will lead regional managers, optimize inventory and supply chain, implement marketing initiatives, and build strong supplier relationships while ensuring health, safety and compliance across stores.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Retail Management, or a related field.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in retail operations management, including senior leadership experience.
• Proven track record of driving sales growth and improving operational efficiency in multi-unit retail.
• Strong understanding of retail merchandising, inventory management, and supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and customer service skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing budgets and P&Ls.
• Proficiency in retail management software, POS systems, and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced retail environment and adapt to market changes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive operational strategies for all retail locations to maximize profitability and market share.
• Oversee daily operations of stores, ensuring adherence to brand standards, merchandising guidelines, and operational procedures.
• Manage, mentor, and motivate a team of regional managers and store personnel, fostering a culture of exceptional customer service and sales excellence.
• Drive sales performance by implementing effective sales strategies, promotions, and customer engagement initiatives.
• Optimize inventory management, supply chain logistics, and stock control to minimize costs and ensure product availability.
• Monitor financial performance of stores, analyze sales data, and implement corrective actions to improve profitability.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements within retail environments.
• Lead initiatives for process improvement, technology adoption, and operational innovation within the retail network.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and key stakeholders.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to direct reports.

Skills

Retail operations

Leadership & team-building

Sales growth strategies

Analytical decision making

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field

Tools

Retail management software

POS systems

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected and expanding retail chain, is searching for a dynamic and experienced Operations Director. This crucial role, based in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, will oversee the operational excellence and strategic development of all retail outlets within the region. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of retail operations, exceptional leadership skills, and a proven ability to drive efficiency, enhance customer experience, and achieve ambitious sales targets. You will be responsible for managing store performance, optimizing supply chains, implementing effective marketing strategies, and leading a dedicated team of store managers and staff. This is a significant opportunity for a seasoned retail operations leader to make a substantial impact within a thriving organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive operational strategies for all retail locations to maximize profitability and market share.
• Oversee daily operations of stores, ensuring adherence to brand standards, merchandising guidelines, and operational procedures.
• Manage, mentor, and motivate a team of regional managers and store personnel, fostering a culture of exceptional customer service and sales excellence.
• Drive sales performance by implementing effective sales strategies, promotions, and customer engagement initiatives.
• Optimize inventory management, supply chain logistics, and stock control to minimize costs and ensure product availability.
• Monitor financial performance of stores, analyze sales data, and implement corrective actions to improve profitability.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements within retail environments.
• Lead initiatives for process improvement, technology adoption, and operational innovation within the retail network.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and key stakeholders.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to direct reports.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Retail Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in retail operations management, with a significant portion in a senior leadership role (e.g., Regional Manager, Operations Director).
• Proven track record of driving sales growth and operational efficiency in a multi-unit retail environment.
• Strong understanding of retail merchandising, inventory management, and supply chain dynamics.
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and motivational skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing retail budgets and P&Ls.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Proficiency in retail management software, POS systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding retail environment and adapt to changing market conditions.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a lucrative bonus structure tied to performance, comprehensive medical and dental benefits, and employee discounts on merchandise.

Pension fund contributions and other retirement benefits are part of the package.

Join a dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional retail experiences.