Senior Retail Operations Specialist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-related bonuses

Hybrid work arrangement

Health and wellness benefits

Employee discounts

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Retail Operations Specialist in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role combines hands-on store operations with remote strategic planning in a hybrid model.

You will drive process improvement, ensure compliance, and lead cross-functional collaboration to optimize store performance and profitability across the region.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in retail operations management or a related field.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of inventory management, loss prevention, operational compliance, and P&L management in retail.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor operational policies and procedures across retail stores.
• Analyze store performance data to identify trends, operational challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
• Oversee inventory management, loss prevention strategies, and operational compliance within stores.
• Support store managers in resolving operational issues and implementing best practices.
• Conduct regular store visits and audits to ensure adherence to operational standards, visual merchandising guidelines, and health & safety regulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless operational execution.
• Manage and optimize store operational budgets and control expenses.
• Lead and mentor store teams on operational excellence and efficiency improvements.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and emerging retail operational trends.
• Contribute to the development and rollout of new operational initiatives and systems.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Communication

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Retail Management

Tools

POS systems

Retail operations software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national retailer known for its quality products and customer service, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Senior Retail Operations Specialist . This position is based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA and operates on a hybrid model, requiring regular on-site presence for hands-on management and remote work for reporting and strategic planning. The specialist will play a vital role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of retail stores, focusing on streamlining processes, optimizing performance, and maintaining high standards across all touchpoints. You will work closely with store managers and regional teams to implement operational best practices, manage compliance, and drive continuous improvement. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive operations professional to contribute to the success of a prominent retail brand.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor operational policies and procedures across retail stores.
• Analyze store performance data to identify trends, operational challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
• Oversee inventory management, loss prevention strategies, and operational compliance within stores.
• Support store managers in resolving operational issues and implementing best practices.
• Conduct regular store visits and audits to ensure adherence to operational standards, visual merchandising guidelines, and health & safety regulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., IT, HR, Merchandising) to ensure seamless operational execution.
• Manage and optimize store operational budgets and control expenses.
• Lead and mentor store teams on operational excellence and efficiency improvements.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and emerging retail operational trends.
• Contribute to the development and rollout of new operational initiatives and systems.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in retail operations management or a related field.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and optimizing retail store operations.
• Strong understanding of inventory management, loss prevention, operational compliance, and P&L management in a retail context.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in retail operations software, POS systems, and MS Office Suite.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote responsibilities with regular on-site presence in various locations as needed, but primarily supporting the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA region.
• Demonstrated ability to drive operational improvements and achieve business objectives.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, or a related field.
• Willingness to travel within the region as required for store visits and audits.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Hybrid work arrangement providing flexibility and on-site engagement.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Generous employee discounts on merchandise.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Be an integral part of a respected retail organization's operational strategy.