Operations Executive (Fuel, Retail & Food)
Ad Hoc Client · Richards Bay · Market Related
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Company Overview
A market-leading organization in the Fuel, Retail, and Food industries is seeking a Operations Executive (GOE) to manage multiple sites across filling stations, franchised quick-service restaurants, and supermarkets . We are committed to fostering franchisee relationships, driving business optimization, and maintaining a competitive edge in a fast-paced, ever-changing market.
Role Summary
As the Operations Executive , you will lead and refine our operational strategy, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability. Your mandate includes overseeing multi-site operations, growing partnerships with franchisees, and ensuring continuous alignment with market trends. You will be instrumental in formulating and delivering a 5-year strategic roadmap that addresses competitive positioning, expansion opportunities, and operational excellence across all business units.
Duties & Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Execution
Lead and revise the Group Strategy for Fuel, Retail, and QSR operations.
Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and external factors to adapt strategies accordingly.
Explore and define growth opportunities to drive sales and profitability.
Operations Management
Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth progress across all sites.
Manage stock levels effectively, reducing variances and minimizing losses .
Drive compliance with franchise standards , brand health requirements, and safety protocols .
Financial & Performance Management
Achieve business unit sales targets and profit margins .
Develop and manage operational budgets, conduct monthly performance reviews, and implement corrective measures for underperforming stores.
Utilize big data and analytics to evaluate performance metrics and drive informed decision-making .
Relationship Building
Foster and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and franchisees .
Oversee promotional activities, ensuring effective execution and alignment with brand strategies.
Manage customer and supplier relationships to optimize revenue and service levels.
Team Leadership & HR/IR
Lead, mentor, and develop multi-disciplinary teams across various regions and departments.
Create a high-performance culture centered on respect, fairness, competitiveness, and growth.
Ensure the legal and IR compliance of all business units under your management.
Project & Change Management
Oversee new projects (store openings, renovations, expansions) from concept to completion.
Manage cross-functional teams to ensure milestones are met on time and within budget.
Key Result Areas (KRAs)
Financial Shape & Profitability : Meet or exceed sales budgets and maintain healthy GP margins.
Brand Health Management : Achieve top-tier franchise ratings (e.g., above 85% or 90% depending on channel).
Operational Efficiency : Implement SOPs, manage strategic stock levels, and optimize store-specific strategies.
Business Intelligence : Gather and interpret data to continuously improve operational processes and identify exceptions swiftly.
Customer Satisfaction & Retention : Establish the company as an industry service-level leader, resolve complaints promptly, and maintain brand loyalty.
Growth & Expansion : Identify new market opportunities, manage expansion strategies, and uphold high standards of execution.
Leadership & Team Management : Develop teams through coaching, set clear performance targets, and ensure constructive feedback loops.
Desired Experience & Qualification
Qualifications & Experience
Completed Tertiary Qualification
FMCG / Retail : At a Management level, including merchandising and operational insight.
Financial Acumen : Strong analytical skills, proven understanding of budgets, GP margins, and financial reporting.
Microsoft Office/Google G-Suite/SQL : Particularly Excel/Sheets/BI for data analysis and report generation.
Valid Driver’s License and Willingness to Travel : Frequent site visits are required.
Sober Habits : Demonstrated reliability and professionalism.
Key Skills
Leadership & Teamwork : Ability to motivate and guide cross-functional teams.
Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving : Aptitude for diagnosing operational issues and providing timely solutions.
Effective Communication : Strong interpersonal skills for relationship-building with stakeholders, franchisees, and team members.
Time Management & Adaptability : Capable of juggling multiple projects and deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Data Analysis & Project Management : Translating large data sets into actionable insights; overseeing projects end-to-end.
Customer Service Orientation : Ensuring seamless customer experiences across all touchpoints.
Results Driven : Focus on achieving sales, market, and profitability targets.