Head of Retail

This role is responsible and accountable for the overall strategy, sales, marketing, profitability and operations of the retail division. This role will provide clear direction to deliver on budgets and display inspirational leadership across a diverse team.

Responsibilities

• Develop, execute and update strategic expansion plan for new store openings.
• Provide input into the strategic direction for the Retail Department in relation to turnover, profitability, budgets and departmental structure.
• Develop strategic plan to achieve sustainable long-term growth for the division.
• Manage relevant reporting of management and financial information for the retail department.
• Maintain and develop our client's image and reputation through compliance with all relevant legislation and company policies.
• Plan and manage internal communications to all team members within the retail department.
• Determine return on investment for merchandising and marketing programs to make recommendations for future strategies that drive sales.
• Ensure short & long term strategic and tactical objectives fully support our client's strategy.
• Deliver agreed sales and profit targets for the retail division.
• Provide outstanding levels of customer service and customer satisfaction.
• Hold staff accountable to ensure exceptional customer service.
• Ensure staff are fully trained on all products.
• Design and implement the annual sales & marketing plan for the retail business.
• Work with the Product Manager & Wholesale Marketing Director on new product development feasibility and execution.
• Collaborate with Finance and IT to develop sound, cost-effective tracking systems on par or beyond competition.
• Report to the CEO on a monthly basis performance against budget.
• Manage the POS system in delivering the requirements of the retail team.
• Assess product range including pricing.
• Manage each store in line with agreed target ratios on labor and stock shrinkage.
• Ensure store and staff presentation are in line with corporate objectives for the brand.
• Forecast sales volumes for operations needs.
• Manage and supply the sales forecast by SKU for all stores on a monthly basis to marketing & operations.
• Instill a culture that ensures all Retail employees understand the Brand and have complete product knowledge.
• Execute the Company’s brand equity, understanding that the retail stores are the most direct way for consumers to experience the brand.
• Maintain awareness of consumer desires within the retail stores and work with the Marketing Department.
• Monitor sales of seasonal and promotional product ranges and report performance.
• Analyze each store's sales performance by product segment and take instore action as required.
• Work with the Supply Chain Manager to establish the most efficient order/delivery process for stock.
• Manage all store lease negotiations on an ongoing basis.
• Ensure that all equipment and machinery are fully operational and in good repair.
• Conduct quarterly maintenance reviews on each site.
• Ensure compliance with relevant labor laws governing employees.
• Manage the recruitment process for all retail management.
• Develop leadership & implement a training schedule on company history, policies & procedures.
• Guide management team on operational issues and human resources.
• Motivate staff to achieve desired sales & profit results.
• Communicate regularly with the Training Manager, Retail Manager, and Store Managers regarding sales and best practices.
• Provide direction to the Store Manager in setting targets & contribute to action plans.
• Analyze daily sales figures for retail and compare to forecasted figures.
• Provide sales information to staff and utilize in incentive programs.
• Work with the HR department in selection, training, development, and succession planning of staff.
• Conduct regular coaching and performance evaluations of all direct reports.
• Ensure compliance with all OHSA legislation.
• Ensure new retail store shop fitting supports a safe work environment.
• Enforce food safety and hygiene standards in store at all times.
• Manage projects that incorporate process or system improvements for the retail business.
• Other duties as directed or required by the business.
• Liaison with overseas management and external consultants.
• Access to appropriate financial personnel who will provide agreed financial information in a timely manner.
  
  

• Strategic thinker with strong analytical skills.
• Ability to mentor, guide and inspire teams.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with creative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to deliver direction and motivate teams based on sound strategy.
• Intermediate computer skills (Excel, Word, Outlook, Power Point).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Sets clear performance targets and defines responsibility.
  
  

• Minimum of 4 - 6 years in Hospitality and/or Retail management in a premium environment.
• Proven record of successful conceptual development and strategic implementation.
• Proven track record with increasing responsibilities in a growth-oriented multi-unit organization.
• Previous food/chocolate Industry experience preferable.