East London: Area Manager

Overview: The Area Manager is responsible for all operations in his/her business unit. They will assist the Operations Manager to make careful considerations of all aspects in the business unit before making a business decision. The Area Manager is responsible (with the Operations Manager) for business unit goals, decisions, plans, implementation and evaluation of performance. Minimum Requirements / Experience: Matric essential (Post Matric / formalized qualifications advantageous) Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Clothing Retail Operations environment as an Area Manager Valid Code 8 drivers license – endorsed Willingness to travel extensively Responsibilities: Asset Management Responsible for the branch/s as a whole, ensuring that the outside of the store is kept neat and tidy and that inside fixtures and fittings are accounted for and maintained Co-ordination of janitorial and repair services Stock Control Responsible for all stock and will be held accountable for all overages and shortages Should ensure control of inventory Prepare requisitions to replenish stock. Identify and report on slow selling items Stock loss action plan Merchandising Manage the quality and quantity aspects of the merchandise assortments Co-ordinate the layout of shelves and merchandise of seasonal and sale displays Identify new ways of promoting merchandise Ensure required housekeeping standards at all times Ensure that there is an equal standard throughout the stores Marketing and Sales Manage the implementation of all marketing promotions to ensure maximum sales opportunities are exploited Achieve and exceed store sales targets. Actively participate in promotions, stay up to date with current advertising and provide sales leadership to staff Stay current with products, marketing and pricing of area retailers with similar products Admin and Cash: Ensure that the standard of administration and procedures in store are met Make certain that business direction and strategies are followed Ensure that the responsible persons are following proper procedures when handling all store cash Check and verify these documents daily Manage controllable expenses as this directly affects the profitability of the branch Management of Staff Assign employees to specific duties Encourage, assist and train employees to become a motivated sales force Manage performance and development of staff Ensure that all procedures and policies are being followed and enforce disciplinary action when necessary Determine when extra temporary staff is needed and recruit same Security Manage the security in all aspects of the business and ensure that security procedures are strictly adhered to Monitor security staff and make sure that they are alert and performing their duties to the maximum Customer Service Must possess strong customer service and communication skills and the ability to apply a friendly and enthusiastic manner on a daily basis Train staff in customer service Assist customers with enquiries and complaints Continuously satisfy customer needs and attract clientele Competencies / Skills: Ability to work under pressure Ability to use own initiative Good attention to detail Excellent proven ability to manage staff and ensure maximum productivity Computer Literate – MS Office