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- Tasks: Lead daily operations across multiple hardware retail stores in East London.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in the thriving hardware retail industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving operational excellence and customer satisfaction in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: 5-7 years in retail operations with strong leadership and stock management skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for those passionate about retail and looking to develop their career in a vibrant environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: East London, Eastern Cape
Industry: Hardware Retail
Level: Mid to Senior
Reports To: Director / Managing Executive
Job Purpose: To oversee and coordinate daily store operations across multiple locations within the East London region. The Operations Manager will be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, consistent service delivery, stock control, staff performance, and the achievement of sales and profitability targets. This role requires a hands-on, experienced leader who understands the retail environment particularly within the hardware and building materials sector.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operational Oversight: Manage and support the daily operations of multiple store locations. Drive operational efficiency and ensure compliance with company procedures and standards. Monitor store performance and implement improvement strategies.
- Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop store managers and operational staff. Drive a high-performance culture and ensure adequate staffing levels. Facilitate ongoing training and upskilling initiatives.
- Stock & Inventory Management: Oversee stock levels, ordering processes, and supply chain coordination. Ensure accurate stock takes and loss prevention measures. Liaise with suppliers and manage supplier performance.
- Customer Service Excellence: Promote a customer-first culture across all stores. Ensure customer satisfaction and handle escalated complaints when necessary.
- Sales & Financial Performance: Monitor and analyse sales trends and store KPIs. Contribute to pricing strategies, promotions, and budgeting. Assist in setting and achieving revenue and profitability goals.
- Store Expansion & New Openings: Play a key role in setting up new store operations. Coordinate with contractors, suppliers, and internal teams during setup. Ensure smooth transitions and alignment with brand standards.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Minimum of 5 - 7 years experience in retail operations, preferably in hardware/building supplies or similar sector.
- Proven experience managing multiple stores or branches.
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Knowledge of stock management systems and retail ERP platforms.
- Sound understanding of retail finance, budgeting, and KPI tracking.
- Experience in new store setups or expansion projects (advantageous).
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to lead and motivate diverse teams.
- Analytical and performance-driven mindset.
- Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
- Adaptability to a dynamic and hands-on retail environment.
OPERATIONS MANAGER - EAST LONDON employer: Level Up
Contact Detail:
Level Up Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land OPERATIONS MANAGER - EAST LONDON
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the hardware retail industry, especially in the East London area. Understanding local market trends and customer preferences can give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the retail operations field. Attend local industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may provide insights or referrals for the Operations Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven operational efficiency and improved store performance.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and culture. Tailoring your approach to align with our mission can demonstrate your commitment and fit for the Operations Manager position.
We think you need these skills to ace OPERATIONS MANAGER - EAST LONDON
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in retail operations, particularly in hardware or building materials. Emphasise your leadership roles and any achievements in managing multiple locations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the retail environment and your hands-on leadership style. Mention specific examples of how you've driven operational efficiency and improved team performance in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as stock management, customer service excellence, and financial performance analysis. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you've successfully applied these skills in past positions.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Abilities: Include instances where you've tackled challenges in retail operations. This could involve improving store performance, handling escalated customer complaints, or leading successful new store openings.
How to prepare for a job interview at Level Up
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, focusing on mentoring and developing staff to achieve high performance.
✨Understand Retail Operations Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and best practices in retail operations, especially in the hardware sector. Be ready to discuss your experience with stock management, compliance, and operational efficiency.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of scenarios where you've had to handle escalated customer complaints or improve store performance, and be prepared to explain your thought process and actions.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role involves monitoring sales trends and contributing to budgeting, brush up on your financial knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you've previously managed budgets, set pricing strategies, or achieved profitability targets.
