Retail Operations Manager

About the position

Reporting to the National Retail Operations Manager (Retail Execution), the incumbent will be responsible for developing and executing retail strategies that drive growth, innovation and retailer profitability, within the Group retail stores service departments. This role ensures consistent execution across all formats, translating category and brand strategy into effective in-store retail experiences that enhance consumer satisfaction, drive sales, promote retail operations excellence.

Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Retail Management, Business, Food Service, or related field
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in retail operations, with a strong background in fresh foods or HMR environments
• Proven experience in leading national or multi-regional retail execution programs
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of food service operations, costings and consumer behaviour
• Experience working within a franchise or independent retail model is advantageous

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership and Execution:

• Support and implement strategies for service departments and related concepts

• Translate business objectives into clear, measurable retail action plans that improve customer experience, operational efficiency, and sales performance
• Partner with regional retail operations teams to ensure consistent execution and alignment to national objectives
• Analyse market trends, competitor activity, and emerging consumer behaviours to identify growth opportunities and innovation areas
• Operational Excellence:
• Develop, standardise, and implement Best Operating Practices (BOPs) for all Fresh and HMR departments
• Ensure operational consistency across stores through structured implementation, training, and compliance monitoring
• Identify performance gaps and drive corrective action through collaboration with regional operations teams and retailers
• Support food safety, quality, and brand integrity across all fresh and prepared food concepts and innovate where required
• Concept Development and Brand Stewardship:
• Serve as custodian of service department concepts, ensuring strategic alignment and brand integrity across all touchpoints
• Develop and execute roll-out plans for new concept introductions and upgrades in line with the Group's strategic growth objectives
• Financial and Commercial Focus:
• Drive initiatives that enhance departmental profitability and improve cost efficiency across stores
• Support the retail operations team in achieving sales, margin, and waste reduction targets
• Identify and leverage opportunities for sales & margin growth through innovation in product mix, service models, and merchandising execution
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across Category Management, Supply Chain, Marketing, Finance, and Training to ensure aligned execution
• Partner with suppliers and service providers to optimise value and ensure consistent delivery standards
• Collaborate with cross-functional departments to evolve and refresh concept offerings based on market insights and shopper trends
• Lead national communication forums to share best practice, performance updates, and innovation pipelines

Desired Skills:

• Retail Operations
• Customer Service
• Inventory Management
• Management Retail
• Category strategy
• Brand strategy
• Home meal replacement
• Fresh foods
• Retail Execution
• Multi Site Management

Desired Work Experience:

• 5 to 10 years FMCG
• 5 to 10 years Middle / Department Management

Desired Qualification Level:

• Degree