Senior Project Manager - Retail Expansion & Operations

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid & retirement fund

Employee discount

Career progression opportunities

Paid time off

Vibrant Sandton hub

Job summary

Placements24 seeks aSenior Project Manager to drive retail expansion across Sandton and Gauteng. You will oversee new store openings, relocations, and refurbishments, coordinating with Real Estate, Store Operations, Marketing and IT to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery that aligns with brand standards.

The ideal candidate brings 6–8+ years in retail-focused project management, strong leadership, and proven stakeholder management in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in business, project management, retail management or related field.
• PMP or PRINCE2 certification is a strong asset.
• 6–8+ years in project management with focus on retail operations, expansion or development.
• Experience managing projects in Sandton or Gauteng is highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and delivery of retail expansion projects (new stores and refurbishments).
• Manage operational improvement projects to enhance efficiency, service, and supply chain processes.
• Develop detailed project plans: scope, timelines, budgets, resources, risk.
• Coordinate with Real Estate, Store Ops, Marketing, IT and external vendors.
• Ensure projects meet deadlines, budgets, and brand standards; mitigate risks.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Retail operations

Risk management

Multi-project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Project Management

Retail Management

Tools

MS Project

Smartsheet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national retail brand, is seeking a dynamic Senior Project Manager to drive their expansion initiatives and operational efficiency projects across various locations, based out of Sandton , Gauteng . This role will involve managing the entire lifecycle of new store openings, store renovations, and the implementation of operational improvements designed to enhance customer experience and streamline business processes. You will work closely with diverse teams, including real estate, store operations, marketing, IT, and external contractors, to ensure seamless execution and successful project outcomes. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth of a major retail player and influence its operational strategies within Gauteng and beyond. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management skills coupled with retail operations experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and successful delivery of retail expansion projects, including new store openings and refurbishments.
• Manage operational improvement projects aimed at enhancing store efficiency, customer service, and supply chain processes.
• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Coordinate with internal departments (e.g., Real Estate, Store Operations, Marketing, IT) and external vendors (e.g., contractors, suppliers).
• Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet brand standards and quality requirements.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and implement effective solutions to mitigate risks.
• Manage stakeholder expectations and facilitate clear, consistent communication across all levels.
• Oversee the procurement of store fixtures, equipment, and services, ensuring competitive pricing and timely delivery.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and building regulations for retail environments.
• Prepare regular project status reports and present findings and recommendations to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Retail Management, or a related field.
• PMP or PRINCE2 certification is a strong asset.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in project management, with a significant focus on retail operations, expansion, or development projects.
• Proven experience managing projects within the Sandton or wider Gauteng region is highly valued.
• Strong understanding of retail store operations, layout design, and supply chain logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet) and retail project management methodologies.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous employee discount and paid time off.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a growing retail group.
• Exposure to exciting retail expansion projects in prime locations.
• Work in a vibrant commercial hub like Sandton .
• Contribute to shaping the retail experience across Gauteng .