Chief Retail Officer/Head of Retail (EE) (JHB)

About the position

ENVIRONMENT:

A leading School Supplies Provider seeks a highly skilled professional who is a visionary thinker with a passion for retail excellence and transformation to fill the role of its next Chief Retail Officer/Head of Retail. You will lead the retail strategy, driving transformation toward world-class standards. This executive role focuses on strategic leadership, operational excellence, and inclusive team development, with a strong commitment to diversity and empowerment within the organization. The successful incumbent will require a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management/Retail Management or related field (MBA preferred) with at least 8-10 years’ work experience in a Senior Retail Management role including a deep understanding of South Africa’s retail landscape and consumer trends. Please note this is an Employment Equity position.

DUTIES:

Strategic Leadership -

• Develop and execute the national retail strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Drive the merchandise assortment as well as plan the flow of merchandise by using the data provided in the business.
• Analyse market trends, customer behaviours, and competitor activities to inform decision-making.

Collaboration with Regional Teams –

• Work closely with Regional Managers to ensure effective strategy implementation.
• Foster a culture of accountability, excellence, and diversity across all regions.
• Act as a role model and mentor, particularly for underrepresented groups.

Retail Operations Management –

• Oversee all aspects of retail operations, including store performance, customer experience, and sales growth.
• Implement best practices in inventory management, merchandising, and compliance.
• Monitor and report on KPIs such as sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

Team Leadership and Development -

• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of Regional Managers and store teams.
• Drive employee engagement through training and leadership development, emphasizing opportunities for women of colour.
• Promote a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Customer Experience Excellence –

• Ensure consistent delivery of exceptional customer service across all stores.
• Develop initiatives to enhance the in-store experience and build customer loyalty.

Innovation and Growth -

• Identify opportunities for innovation in product offerings, store design, and technology.
• Drive initiatives to expand market share and strengthen brand positioning.

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications –

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Retail Management, or related field (MBA preferred).

Experience/Skills –

• Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in Senior Retail Management roles.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing successful retail strategies.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing large, diverse teams.
• Deep understanding of South Africa’s retail landscape and consumer trends.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Excellent analytical and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration across diverse teams.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on measurable outcomes.
• Demonstrated commitment to empowerment, transformation, and diversity in the workplace.

While we would really like to respond to every application, should you not be contacted for this position within 10 working days please consider your application unsuccessful.

COMMENTS:

When applying for jobs, ensure that you have the minimum job requirements. OnlySA Citizens will be considered for this role. If you are not in the mentioned location of any of the jobs, please note your relocation plans in all applications for jobs and correspondence. Apply here [URL Removed] OR e-mail a Word copy of your CV to [Email Address Removed] and mention the reference number of the job.

Desired Skills:

• Chief
• Retail
• Officer