Fresh/Service Department Manager

SUMMARY:
An exciting opportunity exists for a skilled Fresh/Service Department Manager in Ballito.
This role will lead key fresh departments including Butchery, Bakery, Fresh Produce, Deli, and the Coffee Shop - ensuring efficient daily operations, optimised product offerings, and motivated teams that deliver excellent customer experiences.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:
Department Oversight & Operations:

• Oversee day-to-day operations for all assigned departments, ensuring smooth, efficient service, and high standards of product quality and customer satisfaction.

• Have a deep understanding of the local customer base and target market. Use this knowledge to implement and adjust product ranges to meet customer preferences, seasonal demand, and trends.

• Lead, motivate, and develop department staff, ensuring they are trained on best practices for product knowledge, customer service, and food safety. Create a positive work environment and encourage collaboration across departments.

• Oversee stock levels, ordering, and inventory management to avoid wastage while ensuring sufficient stock is available. Monitor stock rotation to maintain freshness.

• Drive sales growth within the departments by setting clear goals, identifying opportunities for upselling, and ensuring competitive pricing and promotions. Regularly assess financial performance and work to maximize profitability.

• Maintain a strong focus on customer service, engaging with customers to gather feedback, address concerns, and improve offerings. Implement strategies to increase customer loyalty and satisfaction.

• Ensure all departments comply with relevant health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and company policies. Conduct regular audits and implement improvements where necessary.

• Ensure that the departments are visually appealing, clean, and well-organized. Collaborate with the marketing team on promotions, seasonal displays, and in-store signage.

• Stay current with industry trends and competitor offerings, bringing innovative product ideas to the table to keep the departments fresh and exciting for customers.

• Work closely with the store management team, ensuring alignment across all departments. Participate in meetings and strategy sessions to drive overall store performance.

• Experience with range planning and product curation in fresh food sectors.
• Previous experience in a similar multi-department management role.
• Proven experience in management, ideally within the supermarket or retail food sector.
• Strong understanding of local market demographics and customer preferences.
• Excellent leadership skills with experience in managing and motivating a diverse team.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to drive sales, manage budgets, and optimize stock.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Solid understanding of food safety and health & safety regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and any relevant supermarket management software.
• Flexibility in working hours, including weekends and holidays as required.
• Strong attention to detail with a passion for fresh food.
• Proactive problem-solver with excellent decision-making skills.
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-changing environment.
• Customer-focused with a high level of professionalism.