Commercial Manager Job Job Details | O&L

Purpose:

The Commercial Manager is a senior leadership role within our retail organization, responsible for the development and implementation of the commercial strategy. This position involves managing all aspects of product procurement, global sourcing, vendor relationships, pricing strategies, and inventory management to ensure that all our retail stores are stocked with high-quality products that meet customer demands and contribute to the company's profitability.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Commerce, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in a buying or procurement role within the retail industry.
• Proven experience in managing a team and leading cross-functional projects.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in inventory management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of the Namibian retail market and consumer behaviour.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning:

Provide input into the development of the companys overall long term strategy.
Develop and execute comprehensive commercial strategy aligned with the overall business goals and objectives.
Identify market trends, new product trends, customer preferences, and competitor activities to inform strategic decisions
Develop innovative initiatives to promote customer experiences, aligned to the O&L Persona brand.

Vendor Management:

Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing with suppliers to achieve the best possible trading terms.
Evaluate supplier performance and ensure compliance with quality standards.
Manage the high level of purchase to pay process, take ownership to drive costs savings by negotiating prices as well as terms and conditions with suppliers

Product Selection and Procurement:

Oversee the selection and procurement of products that align with customer needs and preferences.
Manage the product lifecycle from introduction to discontinuation.
Ensure a balanced and profitable product mix across all stores.

Inventory Management:

Develop and implement effective inventory management practices to minimize stockouts and overstock situations.
Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with store managers to ensure optimal stock availability.

Pricing and Profitability:

Develop pricing strategies that maximize revenue and profitability while remaining competitive in the market.
Analyze sales data and market trends to make informed pricing decisions.
Monitor and adjust pricing in response to market changes and competitor actions.
Identify opportunities to maximize revenue through product assortment, placement, and merchandising strategies.
Work closely with the marketing team to develop initiatives that enhance the store's revenue streams.
Review and adjust ranging per store to improve revenue and optimise working capital in line with customer needs.
Develop, maintain and communicate key performance indicators for the business.
Propose corrective action related to discrepancies in order to influence the performance of stores

Team Leadership:

Lead, mentor, and develop the buying team to ensure high performance and professional growth.
Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment within the team.

Budget Management:

Prepare and manage the buying/ Commercial department's budget.
Monitor and control departmental expenditures to ensure alignment with financial targets.

Reporting and Analysis:

Provide regular reports on purchasing activities, inventory levels, and financial performance.
Analyze data to identify opportunities for improvement and cost savings.

Compliance and Risk Management:

Ensure compliance with industry regulations food safety standards, and ethical business practices.
Identify and mitigate commercial risks that may impact the store's operations and financial performance.

Closing date: 12 August 2024

O&L - a Great Place to Work.

Applicants meeting our requirements are invited to apply. O&L Group of Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

"This position is subject to a pre-employment screening and vetting process, and by applying for this position, applicants acknowledge that they are aware that the Company reserves the right to carry out screening and pre-employment vetting for all shortlisted applicants. Certificate of Conduct issued by the Namibian Police (not older than 6 months) may be required from all shortlisted applicants."

Requisition ID: 4141