General Manager (Retail)

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Well established and growing concern are looking for an experienced and results-driven General Manager to oversee and lead the South African operations. The primary focus of this role is to drive business growth by building and nurturing relationships with key stakeholders and customers across both traditional and modern trade channels — including DIY, e-commerce, specialist dealers, garden centres, and food retailers.

Purpose of the role

The successful candidate will take full accountability for local operations, with a strong focus on optimising commercial management processes and leading a cross-functional team across sales, customer service, marketing, procurement, and administration. This individual will be instrumental in aligning local strategy with group objectives and will work closely with support teams based in Pietermaritzburg.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all business activities in the South African market with a focus on achieving revenue growth, profitability targets, and expanding market share.
• Full accountability for the profit and loss and overall operational performance.
• Develop and execute strategic business plans to drive growth and expansion, including potential geographic expansion into SADC countries.
• Support and implement sales and marketing initiatives, identifying new market opportunities.
• Negotiate customer trading terms at a senior, national level.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics and warehousing service providers.
• Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing local team.
• Ensure compliance with Group policies, internal controls, and local legislation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with group support functions and key stakeholders.

Requirements

• Proven experience in a General Manager or similar senior leadership role.
• Strong background in the retail and B2B market within a related industry.
• Financially astute, with solid experience in managing full P&L responsibility.
• Exceptional negotiating and communication skills at national and senior levels.
• Demonstrated success in expanding market presence and identifying new business opportunities.
• In-depth understanding of sales management, marketing strategies, and business development.
• Experience in both traditional and e-commerce sales channels.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and cost control to ensure profitability.
• Proven ability to establish and maintain strong relationships with key customers and stakeholders.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills.
• Results-driven with strong decision-making ability and strategic thinking.

This is an exciting opportunity for a driven leader to make a significant impact within a dynamic and growing organisation. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a passion for building and leading successful operations, we would love to hear from you.

Note:  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.