The Retail and Merchandising Manager oversees the operations of the lodge’s retail outlets, including curio shops, boutique stores, and lifestyle merchandising within the lodge. This role ensures a premium guest shopping experience by maintaining high retail standards, curating local and luxury product selections, and driving retail revenue through strategic merchandising, stock control, and team leadership.
Key Responsibilities :
Retail Store Operations :
- Manage the day-to-day operations of all lodge retail outlets.
- Ensure high levels of guest service, product knowledge, and visual presentation.
- Implement and enforce luxury retail standards aligned with the 5-star lodge brand.
- Maintain accurate POS operations, stock records, and daily cash-ups.
- Ensure store cleanliness, display integrity, and ambiance reflect a luxury shopping experience.
Merchandising and Product Selection :
- Curate product ranges that align with the lodge’s ethos (e.g. locally made crafts, safari wear, African art, premium skincare, and lifestyle items).
- Coordinate visual merchandising strategies to showcase seasonal and high-margin products.
- Collaborate with local suppliers, artisans, and fair-trade vendors for product sourcing.
- Ensure attractive, on-brand product displays and themed collections.
Sales and Guest Experience :
- Promote upselling and cross-selling of retail products during guest check-in / out and safari briefings.
- Collaborate with the front office and guest services to highlight promotions or featured items.
- Train staff in luxury sales techniques and product storytelling.
Stock Control and Inventory Management :
- Conduct regular stock takes and cycle counts.
- Monitor stock levels, place timely orders, and manage reordering systems.
- Reduce losses through tight control, theft prevention, and product care.
- Manage pricing, barcoding, and stock presentation standards.
Reporting and Revenue Management :
- Prepare and analyze weekly / monthly sales and stock reports.
- Monitor profitability, sales trends, and guest preferences.
- Work with the finance and operations teams to develop retail revenue targets.
POSITION INFO :
Qualifications and Experience :
Education :
- Diploma or Degree in Retail Management, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field.
Experience :
- Minimum 3–5 years in retail or merchandising management, preferably in a luxury hotel, game lodge, or boutique retail setting.
- Experience working with high-end, artisan, or tourist-focused products is advantageous.
- Familiarity with POS systems and stock control software.
Skills and Attributes :
- Strong customer service and luxury sales experience.
- Excellent visual merchandising and product display skills.
- Strong organizational and stock management capabilities.
- Proficient in MS Office (especially Excel) and retail software systems.
- High attention to detail and a passion for design and aesthetics.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to manage a team and work independently.
- Passion for African design, culture, and conservation.
- Professional, well-groomed, and approachable.
- Creative, proactive, and solution-oriented.
- Commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities.
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