Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and driven Retail Branch Manager with a strong knowledge of agriculture to oversee the daily operations of our retail branch. The ideal candidate will have a passion for agriculture, a proven track record in retail management, and the ability to drive sales and team performance. As the Retail Branch Manager, you will ensure excellent customer service, manage a diverse team, maintain stock levels, and drive the growth of the business within the agricultural sector.
Key Responsibilities:
Branch Operations Management:
Oversee the daily operations of the retail branch, ensuring that all activities run smoothly, efficiently, and in line with company standards.
Manage the store's inventory, ensuring products, especially agriculture-related goods (seeds, fertilizers, equipment, etc.), are well-stocked and organized.
Coordinate with suppliers and the head office to ensure timely deliveries and the availability of key agricultural products.
Maintain branch compliance with health and safety regulations, especially for agricultural chemicals, fertilizers, and machinery.
Customer Service and Sales:
Provide excellent customer service, offering expert advice on agricultural products and services to meet the needs of farmers, landscapers, and other customers.
Act as the primary point of contact for customer inquiries, product information, and any complaints or concerns, resolving them efficiently.
Develop strategies to increase sales, focusing on agriculture-related products and services. Monitor and improve branch sales performance.
Drive promotional activities and seasonal campaigns to boost foot traffic and sales.
Team Leadership and Development:
Lead, motivate, and develop a team of retail staff to achieve high levels of performance and customer satisfaction.
Conduct regular training sessions to ensure staff are knowledgeable about agricultural products, services, and industry trends.
Create and maintain a positive, productive work environment that fosters teamwork and high morale.
Manage staff schedules and allocate resources efficiently to ensure operational effectiveness.
Inventory Control and Stock Management:
Monitor stock levels and ensure that agricultural products are properly categorized and stored.
Implement stock rotation and manage stocktake procedures to reduce waste and ensure accurate inventory.
Work with the purchasing team to forecast demand for agriculture-related items and plan orders accordingly.
Financial Management:
Oversee the branch budget and ensure expenses are within approved limits.
Prepare and analyze sales reports to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
Implement cost control measures and identify opportunities for profit growth.
Agricultural Knowledge:
Utilize knowledge of agriculture to provide tailored advice to customers, including understanding the needs of local farmers, crop producers, and those involved in land and property management.
Stay up to date with trends and innovations in the agricultural sector, including new farming technologies, fertilizers, seeds, and pest control solutions.
Assist in developing the branch's product range to better cater to the needs of the local agricultural community.
Qualifications & Skills:
Essential:
Proven experience as a Retail Manager, Branch Manager, or similar role, ideally in an agricultural or related retail setting.
Strong knowledge of agriculture, including products such as seeds, fertilizers, machinery, and pest control solutions.
Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with customers in the agricultural sector.
Solid financial acumen, with experience managing budgets and sales targets.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
Desirable:
A degree or certification in Agriculture, Agribusiness, or a related field.
Previous experience managing a retail store or branch in a rural or agricultural setting.
Knowledge of the local agricultural community and market trends.
Familiarity with agricultural machinery or equipment.
Experience in using retail management software or inventory control systems.