TECHNICAL MANAGER - RETAIL FACILITIES, MAINTENANCE & PROJECTS - REFRIGERATION AND HVAC

SUMMARY:
Introduction Take full responsibility for the technical operations, facilities, infrastructure and maintenance of the company''s 85 retail sites.

POSITION INFO:

Technical Operations & Facilities Management

 Oversee electrical installations, HVAC, commercial refrigeration, plumbing, buildings, roofs, fire systems and emergency power.

• Manage technical infrastructure, assets and equipment, including asset registers and replacement planning.
• Implement preventative, planned, reactive and emergency maintenance programmes.
• Oversee fault-finding, repairs and corrective maintenance.
• Identify recurring technical failures and implement long-term solutions.
• Ensure all facilities remain safe, functional and operational.

 Contractor & Service Provider Management

 Take full responsibility for sourcing, appointing, coordinating and managing contractors and service providers.

• Manage contracts, SLAs, work orders, quotations and service delivery.
• Monitor contractor performance, workmanship, costs, safety and deadlines.
• Ensure work meets agreed specifications, quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Inspect completed work, address defects and hold contractors accountable for delivery.

 Maintenance, Repairs & Store Restorations

 Manage all maintenance, repairs and technical breakdowns across the 85 sites.

• Oversee emergency repairs, major building works, restorations and reinstatement projects.
• Manage repairs to roofs, ceilings, flooring, electrical systems, refrigeration, plumbing and building infrastructure.
• Monitor maintenance backlogs and prioritise outstanding work.
• Minimise store downtime and disruption to trading.

 New Store Developments, Refurbishments & Projects

 Manage technical aspects of new store construction, developments and installations.

• Oversee renovations, refurbishments, upgrades and restoration projects.
• Coordinate contractors, suppliers, consultants and service providers throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage project scopes, quotations, budgets, timelines and quality.
• Oversee installations, testing, commissioning and final handover.
• Ensure projects meet specifications, safety standards and operational requirements.

Regulatory, Statutory Compliance & Risk Management

 Ensure compliance with applicable OHS legislation, SANS standards and regulations.

• Maintain valid COCs, statutory inspections, certificates and safety records.
• Ensure electrical, fire protection and other relevant installations meet applicable requirements.
• Manage contractor safety, risk assessments and compliance documentation.
• Conduct technical inspections, identify risks and ensure corrective actions are implemented.

Financial & Budget Management

• Develop and manage Opex and Capex budgets.
• Control contractor quotations, invoices, maintenance costs and project expenditure.
• Evaluate quotations and manage procurement of services and materials.
• Monitor expenditure, budgets and project costs.
• Manage contracts and SLAs.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or quality.
• Provide accurate financial and operational reports.

 Team Management & Leadership

 Lead, manage and develop technical teams and service providers.

• Establish clear KPIs, responsibilities, service levels and accountability.
• Coordinate technical resources and contractor activities across multiple regions.
• Conduct regular store visits, inspections and performance reviews.
• Resolve operational, contractor and service delivery challenges.
• Promote proactive maintenance and continuous improvement.

 Reporting & Performance Management

 Report on maintenance activities, outstanding repairs, contractor performance and SLA compliance.

• Monitor Opex, Capex, project progress and budget variances.
• Track maintenance backlogs, infrastructure risks and recurring technical failures.
• Provide accurate reports and recommendations to management.

Desired Experience & Qualification 

• Recognised qualification in Refrigeration (essential) and or Air Conditioning or HVAC (NQF Level 4 or equivalent).  Experience and qualifications in both highly preferred
• Refrigeration Mechanic or Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic trade test would be highly advantageous.
• Proven experience in commercial refrigeration, HVAC systems and multi-site facilities management.
• Knowledge of refrigeration systems, cold rooms, display fridges, compressors, condensers, evaporators, electrical controls and ventilation.
• Understanding of preventative maintenance, fault-finding, repairs, installations and commissioning.
• SARACCA / SAQCC refrigerant-handling registration or certification would be advantageous.
• Additional electrical, HVAC controls and BMS qualifications would be beneficial.

Email CV''s to C