Centre Manager

SUMMARY:
Are you a skilled property professional ready to take on a key leadership role in one of Empangeni’s busiest retail environments? Our client, a well-established property development company with a national footprint, is looking for an experienced Centre Manager to oversee the day-to-day and strategic operations of a prominent shopping centre with a GLA of 30,000m².

This is a hands-on role requiring a balance of operational excellence, financial control, leasing expertise, and marketing coordination — ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, tenant-focused environments.

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage the annual income and expense budget.
• Track and optimise rental income, turnover rentals, and recoveries.
• Conduct monthly financial reporting with detailed variance analysis.
• Coordinate long-term maintenance planning and capital project forecasting.

• Manage lease renewals and ensure smooth tenant exit processes.
• Prepare vacant premises for marketing and tenant placement.
• Develop and implement a letting strategy aligned with asset goals.
• Source, negotiate, and secure lease agreements with new tenants.

• Maintain a clear arrears position for each tenant.
• Work closely with the credit control team to recover outstanding rentals.
• Engage with tenants and support legal processes for persistent arrears.
• Recommend bad debt write-offs when necessary.

• Ensure high standards across maintenance, security, cleaning, and safety.
• Enhance the customer experience through operational excellence.
• Regularly assess the condition and presentation of the centre.
• Build strong community relations and ensure a positive public image.

• Contribute to the annual marketing strategy and campaign planning.
• Oversee centre promotions, events, seasonal campaigns, and social media.
• Monitor marketing budget and performance of marketing agencies.
• Implement CSI initiatives, PR activities, and promotional court sales.
• Ensure consistency in brand execution across all physical and digital platforms.

• Lead and manage the on-site centre team, including admin and marketing staff.
• Conduct regular team meetings, set KPIs, and lead performance reviews.
• Maintain strong internal communication and operational alignment.

• Submit monthly management and marketing reports to the Asset Manager.
• Ensure proper documentation of lease terms, operational records, and tenant engagement.
• Communicate effectively with tenants, contractors, and ownership.

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum 5–7 years of experience in retail or commercial property management.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale retail centres (GLA ±30,000m² preferred).
• Strong financial management, leasing, and operational skills.
• Proficiency in property systems such as MDA, MRI, or PIMS is beneficial.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Property, Business, or Marketing is advantageous.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Empangeni.

What’s on Offer:

• Lead a flagship retail centre in a vibrant regional hub.
• Work with a respected property development company.
• Competitive salary and professional growth opportunities.
• A high-impact leadership role in an evolving property landscape.