Area Manager - Operations

Area Manager – Retail OperationsJob Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Area Manager to oversee multiple retail stores within a designated region. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring compliance with company standards, improving store performance, and leading store teams to achieve consistent operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

This role requires strong leadership, hands-on field management, and the ability to identify operational gaps and implement effective solutions across all assigned stores.

Key ResponsibilitiesStore Performance & Operational Standards

• Conduct regular store visits and performance evaluations across assigned stores.
• Ensure all stores comply with company operational standards and procedures.
• Monitor store presentation, cleanliness, layout, and overall customer experience.
• Ensure proper merchandising, stock presentation, and adherence to planograms and layouts.
• Identify operational gaps and implement corrective actions.

Maintenance & Facilities Management

• Identify, report, and follow up on store maintenance issues including:
• Lighting and electrical faults
• Flooring and tiles
• Turnstiles and security barriers
• General infrastructure and facility repairs
• Ensure all maintenance issues are resolved timeously and effectively.

IT Systems & Operational Equipment

• Monitor functionality of store equipment including:
• POS systems (tills)
• Card machines (speed points)
• Safes and cash handling equipment
• Devices and communication tools
• Cabling and connectivity
• Liaise with IT support teams to resolve system and equipment issues.
• Ensure minimal operational downtime due to technical faults.

Cash Management & Compliance

• Conduct cash control audits including back-float checks and till spot checks.
• Ensure adherence to cash handling procedures and internal controls.
• Investigate and report discrepancies or irregularities.
• Support loss prevention initiatives.

Stock Control & Merchandising

• Monitor stock levels, damages, and expired stock across stores.
• Ensure accurate stock replenishment, gap scanning, and stock placement.
• Conduct store layout and merchandising compliance checks.
• Ensure promotions, pricing updates, and campaigns are implemented correctly.
• Support inventory accuracy and stock integrity.

Leadership, Training & Development

• Provide ongoing coaching, training, and operational support to store teams.
• Conduct on-site training based on operational findings and performance gaps.
• Ensure staff understand and comply with company policies and procedures.
• Support development of store managers and supervisors.

Employee Relations & Disciplinary Management

• Conduct or support disciplinary investigations and hearings when required.
• Enforce company policies through fair and consistent corrective action.
• Assist in resolving workplace conflict and employee relations issues.
• Support store leadership with HR-related operational matters.

Daily Responsibilities

• Visit assigned stores and conduct operational audits and inspections.
• Monitor compliance with company standards and procedures.
• Identify and resolve operational, maintenance, IT, stock, and staffing issues.
• Conduct cash and till checks during store visits.
• Review store performance, layout, pricing, and merchandising execution.
• Provide coaching, feedback, and on-the-ground support to teams.
• Escalate and follow up on critical operational issues.
• Maintain accurate reports on store performance and actions taken.

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 / Matric (essential)
• Proven experience as an Area Manager or in multi-store retail operations
• Strong understanding of retail operations, compliance, and store standards
• Experience in cash control, stock management, and store audits
• Knowledge of disciplinary procedures and employee relations
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• High attention to detail and operational discipline
• Problem-solving and decision-making capability
• Ability to manage multiple stores and priorities simultaneously
• Strong reporting and analytical skills
• Ability to drive accountability and performance improvement

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive market-related salary
• Target bonus structure (to be discussed during interview process)

Job Type

Full-time | Field-based

Location

Multi-site / Regional (Travel Required)

Preference will be given to candidates with previous Area Manager, Regional Manager, or senior retail management experience within established retail groups such as Shoprite, Clicks, Boxer, or similar large-scale retail environments.

We want to ensure that all applicants have a fair and equal chance, so we’re using a TestGorilla assessment (https://www.testgorilla.com). This minimizes unconscious bias in our hiring process. Successful candidates will be invited to a job interview.

Ready to join our team? Start by clicking the link below.

https://app.testgorilla.com/s/0ppibecz

Pay: R17 000,00 - R20 000,00 per month

Education:

• Certificate (Preferred)

Experience:

• FMCG (Operations ) : 6 years (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 75% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person