Regional Operations Manager – Retail (Apparel & Footwear)

About the role

This senior position oversees a national network of more than 20 apparel and footwear stores, driving sales, profitability and operational excellence. The Regional Operations Manager leads a team of four Area Managers and ensures a consistent, high‑quality customer experience across all locations.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for 20+ stores and 4 Area Managers.
• Drive sales growth, profitability and achievement of key performance indicators.
• Coach, develop and evaluate Area Managers and Store Managers.
• Monitor store performance, identify trends, risks and opportunities, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure consistent execution of company standards, policies, merchandising, stock control and loss‑prevention.
• Conduct regular store visits, audits and performance reviews.
• Analyse sales, stock, expenses and profitability reports to optimise revenue and costs.
• Manage operational budgets and ensure financial compliance.
• Partner with Buying, Planning, Supply Chain, HR, Finance, Marketing and Visual Merchandising to optimise product availability.
• Support new store openings, relocations, refurbishments and closures.
• Monitor competitor activity, market trends and adapt operational strategies.
• Prepare and present performance reports and recommendations to senior management.

Required profile

• Matric / Grade 12; Bachelor’s degree in Business, Retail Management, Commerce or related field preferred.
• 8+ years of retail management experience, including multi‑store oversight.
• Proven experience managing Area Managers/Store Managers and geographically dispersed operations.
• Strong track record of achieving sales targets and improving profitability.
• Experience in apparel, footwear or high‑volume fashion retail is highly advantageous.
• Commercial and financial acumen with experience in budgeting, expense control and sales analysis.

Required skills