Trainee Store Manager

Position Purpose To manage the full operations of a Fashion Retail store, ensuring sales growth, excellent customer service, effective stock control, visual merchandising, and the development of a motivated sales team. The Store Manager is accountable for achieving profit targets, minimizing losses, and upholding the companys brand standards. Key Responsibilities Sales & Customer Service Achieve and exceed daily, weekly, and monthly sales targets. Deliver excellent customer service through staff training and direct engagement with customers. Handle customer complaints, exchanges, and returns in line with company policy. Build and maintain relationships with bulk/corporate customers (e.g., schools, businesses for uniforms/PPE). Merchandise & Visual Presentation Ensure stock is merchandised according to company guidelines (size curves, displays, promotional layouts). Keep store windows, mannequins, and promotional areas attractive and up to date. Maintain price accuracy and promotional execution as per head office instructions. Monitor slow-moving, high-demand, and seasonal items to optimize floor space. Stock & Loss Control Oversee receiving, transfers (IBTs), and returns. Ensure all stock counts (daily, weekly, monthly) are accurate and variances investigated. Implement measures to prevent shrinkage (theft, incorrect ringing, discount misuse). Control stockroom organization and back-of-house efficiency. Staff Leadership & Development Recruit, train, and develop sales staff. Schedule staff rosters according to peak trading hours and wage budgets. Motivate and coach staff to achieve sales targets and maintain service standards. Conduct performance reviews, discipline, and counselling when necessary. Store Operations & Administration Oversee daily opening and closing procedures, ensuring smooth trading. Manage cash handling, daily cash-up, and banking in line with policy. Control store expenses (wages, petty cash, utilities) within budget. Ensure health, safety, and housekeeping standards are met in-store. Submit daily/weekly/monthly sales and expense reports to Head Office. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Achievement of sales and profit targets Shrinkage within company benchmark Execution of visual merchandising and promotional standards Customer service/complaint resolution rate Staff productivity, attendance, and turnover levels Requirements Education : Matric (Grade 12); Diploma/Degree in Retail, Fashion, or Business Management an advantage Experience : 35 years in retail, at least 2 in a supervisory or management role (fashion/clothing/PPE experience preferred) Skills : Strong leadership and people management Visual merchandising and stock control knowledge Financial acumen (sales, GP, expense control) Computer literacy (POS, IQ Retail or similar, Microsoft Office/Google Suite) Excellent communication and customer engagement skills Attributes Passion for fashion retail and customer service Energetic, hands-on leader visible on the floor High integrity, accountability, and attention to detail Results-driven and able to work under pressure Flexible to assist across branches when needed

Location: Pongola, ZA

Posted Date: 9/6/2025