RETAIL OPERATIONS ADVISOR

Applications are invited for the position of Retail Operations Advisor with Cantillon Group. Reporting to the Head of Retail, this role is integral to optimising business potential by providing advice to our store managers in both SPAR and Maxol on all areas of store operations.

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in the retail convenience sector.
• Proven ability to manage, motivate, and inspire teams.
• Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to lead transformational change across complex topics.
• Experience in calculating and managing operational budgets, staffing, and targets.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office software, including Excel and PowerPoint.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to engage and build relationships with individuals at all organisational levels.
• Resilient and calm under pressure.
• Must have an excellent people skills.
• Must hold a full, clean driver’s licence.

• Oversee daily store operations, ensuring all retail activities run smoothly and efficiently.
• Provide best-practice advice on store operations, margin optimisation, and in-store assistance.
• Collaborate with Store Managers to optimise merchandising and sales strategies.
• Advise store management on maintaining exceptional food hygiene standards and compliance with procedures.
• Guide store management on product range, planogram implementation, and category layouts.
• Implement, measure, and advise on cyclical, seasonal, and occasional promotional strategies.
• Conduct store audits and follow up on underperforming stores using scorecards, quality assurance audits, mystery shopper results, and excellence audits.
• Participate in major and minor in-store projects, including planning for new store openings and existing store refits.
• Ensure compliance with safety and security standards and handle emergency situations when needed.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase store sales and profitability.
• Address operational challenges and propose effective solutions.
• Analyse financial data and use insights to improve profitability.
• Work closely with suppliers and the Head Office team.
• Coordinate with the HR Manager and Fresh Food Manager to ensure staff compliance with health and safety regulations, including food safety standards.
• Analyse operational data to identify areas for improvement and cost savings.