Area Manager

Summary of Role:
The Area Manager oversees a group of store managers within their designated area. They implement strategic and commercial plans, make decisions to address daily operational challenges, and ensure excellent customer experiences. Responsibilities also include evaluating financial and administrative procedures in stores, understanding market trends, and implementing effective visual merchandising and omnichannel strategies. Managing 10-15 stores in the UAE, the Area Manager ensures proper commercial execution, operational efficiency, and attainment of sales/profitability targets.

Job Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
Customer Focus:
Guide and mentor the team in achieving key performance indicators (KPIs) related to customer experience.
Attain the Net Promoter Score (NPS) target and devise action plans to address any issues impacting customer satisfaction.
Meet targets for external surveys regarding operational measures.
Implement necessary measures to ensure a speedy and pleasant checkout experience for customers.
Ensure availability of fresh food range, uphold high hygiene standards, maintain product quality, freshness, and taste.

Merchandise Management Responsibilities:
Ensure sales growth and retail success by optimizing display attractiveness and in-store ambiance.
Oversee the implementation and monitoring of merchandise tools like Top 50, import orders, and Promotion Bookings on a daily basis.
Ensure the execution of the Commercial Plan, including leaflets, planograms, promotions, and display guidelines.
Conduct sales analysis, including omnichannel and family trends, as well as competition surveys.
Utilize business intelligence tools and store visits to maintain operational excellence, including managing stock levels, labeling, item placement, and addressing stock discrepancies.
Collaborate with distribution centers to enhance service levels, manage claims, and adjust delivery schedules as needed.
Analyze product assortment both quantitatively and qualitatively, proposing sales-boosting measures in coordination with the Sales Development team.
Maintain quality control of stock through robust processes and ensure efficient warehouse organization.
Stay abreast of competitors’ activities and collaborate with headquarters to respond effectively.
Drive team efficiency and operations flow within the warehouse.

Human Resources Management Responsibilities:
Serve as a role model for adhering to Majid Al Futtaim Retail corporate policies and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and cultural norms in operating countries.
Exemplify company values and ensure they are upheld by all team members within the department.
Lead performance management initiatives for the team, including setting annual objectives aligned with company and departmental targets.
Conduct regular performance analyses and provide constructive feedback to direct reports.
Implement workforce planning and scheduling strategies with a focus on multitasking and organizational efficiency.
Identify training needs for the team and oversee the implementation of necessary training programs.
Develop and execute on-the-job training initiatives for team members.
Identify high-potential employees and create career development plans for their advancement.
Foster open communication and participatory management practices within the team.

Financial Management Responsibilities:
Enforce adherence to approved budgets and comply with procedures outlined in the Delegation of Authority (DOA).
Utilize finance tools such as Daily Margin, Market Pricing, Warehouse Control, inventory reports, and waste & shrinkage analysis.
Coordinate with headquarters (HO) team on pricing adjustments based on market surveys.
Take ownership of profit and loss for stores, focusing on sales, margin (including waste/shrinkage), staff costs, and expenses.
Implement control mechanisms to ensure budget compliance and collaborate with the Financial Controller (FC) Area to address any deviations.
Recommend and implement measures to continuously reduce distribution costs in collaboration with Human Capital (HC) and FC.
Oversee stock management, ensure inventory quality, and monitor depreciation and working capital.

Asset Management Responsibilities:
Ensure consistent implementation of Majid Al Futtaim Retail concepts across stores, including discount offerings, comprehensive product selection, self-service options, and value parking facilities.
Coordinate with other departments to meet deadlines and execute store remodeling projects effectively.
Take a hands-on approach to oversee the expansion plan, ensuring full involvement and control of new store openings.
Conduct biannual “Assets Visits” to each store in the area, collaborating with store managers to maintain, utilize, and enhance the profitability of store assets through maintenance and preventative measures.
Encourage and facilitate innovation within the area.
Recommend and oversee investments that enhance the “Discount” concept, boost productivity, and improve profitability.
Ensure security through monthly audits, monitoring critical indicators, and conducting hygiene audits.

Functional/Technical Competencies:
Demonstrates exceptional organizational and leadership skills.
Proficient in problem-solving and effectively prioritizing tasks.
Familiarity with managing individuals and groups, including measuring the effectiveness of training.
Extensive experience in Fresh Food, Consumer Goods (CG), and Omnichannel operations.
Knowledgeable about principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, and training.
Experienced in implementing best practices in business and commercial management.
Capable of collaborating with other departments on cross-functional projects such as store remodeling and head of file initiatives.

Requirements:
Bachelor’s Degree in Management; an MBA in the same field is advantageous.
8-10 years of experience in a relevant store management role.
Minimum of 2 years of senior retail management experience across various disciplines.
Extensive experience in Retail & Supermarkets, currently overseeing between 10 to 20 stores.
Proficient in conducting sales analysis, including Omnichannel insights and assessing family trends and competition.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
At Majid Al Futtaim, we’re dedicated to crafting unforgettable moments, spreading joy, and creating experiences that leave lasting memories. With over 27 years of excellence, we’ve established ourselves as a frontrunner in our industry across the region. Come be a part of our journey!
Benefits Include:
Flexibility to work remotely from any country for up to 30 days a year.
Embrace a welcoming atmosphere where positivity reigns and excitement for the future abounds.
Collaborate with over 50,000 diverse and skilled colleagues, all driven by our esteemed Leadership Model.