Job Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY Our client is an established and growing group with several business entities operating across multiple sites. This is a confidential appointment. The group is looking for a go-getter General Manager to lead its entities as one high-performing business. PURPOSE OF THE ROLE The General Manager is accountable for the overall operational and financial performance of the group’s entities. Working through the Senior Operations Managers, the GM sets clear priorities, follows up relentlessly and makes sure that what must get done gets done. The role needs someone who is exceptionally strong operationally, understands the financial side of the business and acts on the numbers. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES ​ Leading multiple entities • Run a portfolio of business entities day to day, with clear operating plans, standards and targets for each. • Set priorities and align resources across the entities so that every entity delivers on budget. • Visit sites regularly and act quickly on problems found. Driving the Senior Operations Managers • Manage the Senior Operations Managers directly, with clear goals, deadlines and accountability. • Run regular operational and performance reviews and follow up until actions are closed out. • Coach, challenge and performance-manage the senior team, escalating under-performance where needed. Operational excellence • Set and audit operating standards for service, presentation, turnaround times and customer experience. • Improve efficiency, productivity and service levels at every site. • Drive sales volumes, revenue growth and throughput. Financial performance • Prepare and manage budgets for every entity and the group and take full P&L accountability. • Monitor daily reconciliations, stock variances, cash-ups and banking, and act on losses immediately. • Control stock, shrinkage, overtime and operating costs; report monthly results and forecasts to executive leadership. Suppliers, people & compliance • Manage key suppliers and brand partner relationships. • Ensure staffing, wages and IR comply with the applicable bargaining council agreements and labour legislation. • Ensure licences, health & safety, environmental and regulatory requirements are met at all sites. • Identify and evaluate new business opportunities for the group. Requirements MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ​ • Matric; a relevant diploma or degree in Business Management, Finance or Operations. • Minimum 8 years’ operational management experience in a multi-site environment, including at least 3 years in a general management or senior operations role. • Proven experience running multiple business units or entities at the same time. • Exceptionally strong operational track record: setting standards, managing senior managers and getting results through them. • Sound financial understanding: P&L, budgets, cost control and management accounts. • Working knowledge of stock and cash reconciliations, bargaining council requirements, the BCEA and LRA. • Computer literate (MS Excel, Word, Outlook). • Valid driver’s licence, own reliable vehicle and willingness to travel extensively between sites. • Clear criminal record; appointment subject to criminal and credit checks. ADVANTAGEOUS • Multi-site retail experience, such as fuel retail, motor trade or similar environments. • Experience turning around under-performing sites or businesses. • Experience reporting directly to owners or an executive team. KEY COMPETENCIES • Go-getter: driven, proactive and results-focused, with a strong sense of urgency. • Exceptionally strong operator who gets things done and follows through.