Retail Operations Manager

About this role

SPAR is recruiting a Retail Operations Manager based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role leads and oversees retail operations across Eswatini and Mozambique, with the aim of growing the business and keeping standards high.

What you’ll do

• Lead retail operations in Eswatini and Mozambique in line with SPAR Lowveld’s strategic goals.
• Drive sales, profit and market growth across the region.
• Build and maintain good working relationships with retailers, suppliers, service providers and other stakeholders.
• Review store performance and financial results, spot risks, and act on problem areas. Work with retailers on action plans to improve sales, productivity and customer service.
• Carry out store visits, operational reviews and audits, then give clear feedback and recommendations.
• Lead retail projects such as new store openings, refurbishments and re-launches. Liaise between retailers and SPAR support teams, including Logistics, Marketing, IT, Finance and the Distribution Centre.
• Coach and develop operational teams and retailers, and prepare operational and financial reports for presentation.

What you need

• National Senior Certificate (Matric).
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Operations Management, or an Advanced Diploma in Operations Management.
• Experience in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry.
• At least 3 to 5 years’ experience as a Retail Operations Manager.
• Strong commercial and financial skills, plus strategic planning and decision-making.
• Leadership and regional management experience.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Good stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and travel extensively.
• Fluent English and proficient Portuguese, including translation and language support.
• Advantageous: French.

Is this job for you?

This role suits an experienced retail operations leader who is comfortable managing across borders. You should enjoy working with retailers, reading performance data and leading teams through change.

Tips before you apply

• Have your matric certificate and degree or diploma certificates ready to upload with your application.
• Show your FMCG and retail operations track record in your CV. Name the store networks, sizes and results you managed.
• Give concrete examples of cross-border or regional work, including any Portuguese language use, and the financial results you improved.