Retail and Merchandising Manager

SUMMARY:
Job Summary:
The Retail and Merchandising Manager oversees the operations of the lodge’s retail outlets, including curio shops, boutique stores, and lifestyle merchandising within the lodge. This role ensures a premium guest shopping experience by maintaining high retail standards, curating local and luxury product selections, and driving retail revenue through strategic merchandising, stock control, and team leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
Retail Store Operations:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of all lodge retail outlets.
• Ensure high levels of guest service, product knowledge, and visual presentation.
• Implement and enforce luxury retail standards aligned with the 5-star lodge brand.
• Maintain accurate POS operations, stock records, and daily cash-ups.
• Ensure store cleanliness, display integrity, and ambiance reflect a luxury shopping experience.

• Curate product ranges that align with the lodge’s ethos (e.g. locally made crafts, safari wear, African art, premium skincare, and lifestyle items).
• Coordinate visual merchandising strategies to showcase seasonal and high-margin products.
• Collaborate with local suppliers, artisans, and fair-trade vendors for product sourcing.
• Ensure attractive, on-brand product displays and themed collections.

• Promote upselling and cross-selling of retail products during guest check-in/out and safari briefings.
• Collaborate with the front office and guest services to highlight promotions or featured items.
• Train staff in luxury sales techniques and product storytelling.

• Conduct regular stock takes and cycle counts.
• Monitor stock levels, place timely orders, and manage reordering systems.
• Reduce losses through tight control, theft prevention, and product care.
• Manage pricing, barcoding, and stock presentation standards.

• Prepare and analyze weekly/monthly sales and stock reports.
• Monitor profitability, sales trends, and guest preferences.
• Work with the finance and operations teams to develop retail revenue targets.

POSITION INFO:
Qualifications and Experience:
Education:

• Diploma or Degree in Retail Management, Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field.

• Minimum 3–5 years in retail or merchandising management, preferably in a luxury hotel, game lodge, or boutique retail setting.
• Experience working with high-end, artisan, or tourist-focused products is advantageous.
• Familiarity with POS systems and stock control software.

• Strong customer service and luxury sales experience.
• Excellent visual merchandising and product display skills.
• Strong organizational and stock management capabilities.
• Proficient in MS Office (especially Excel) and retail software systems.
• High attention to detail and a passion for design and aesthetics.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a team and work independently.

• Passion for African design, culture, and conservation.
• Professional, well-groomed, and approachable.
• Creative, proactive, and solution-oriented.
• Commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities.