Cluster Manager

Position Objective:

The objective of the Cluster Manager role is to oversee the operations and financial performance of a smaller group of retail stores for a particular brand within a designated area in a country. This includes driving sales growth, ensuring exceptional customer service, managing and developing store teams, and maintaining compliance with company standards. The role requires market analysis, financial oversight, and effective communication with the Area Sales Manager and brand teams to optimize store performance, manage inventory, and execute promotional and marketing campaigns in stores to achieve business objectives.

Key Responsibility:

Operations Management

• Oversee the daily operations of a smaller group of retail stores within a designated area for a specific brand, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning.
• Audit store operations and facilities regularly to ensure compliance with company standards, policies, and procedures, focusing on productivity, efficiency, safety, and security.
• Direct the opening of new stores within the cluster by coordinating resources such as staff, merchandise, and logistics; manage the closing of existing stores as necessary.
• Adhere to and enforce Company SOPs, policies, procedures, and loss prevention audit guidelines in all assigned stores. Implement corrective actions to address any non-compliance issues.
• Oversee the implementation and consistent execution of Visual Merchandising guidelines across all stores in the cluster.

Sales & Financial Management

• Monitor and analyze sales performance by comparing actual sales against weekly targets, previous year’s performance, and projections. Take corrective actions in coordination with other departments.
• Set sales targets for stores within the cluster to maximize profitability, taking into account market conditions and store-specific factors.
• Review and monitor stock level reports, coordinating with the brand team to ensure optimal inventory levels are maintained.
• Monitor inventory movement and take necessary actions to minimize shrinkage and optimize stock turnover.

Customer Experience

• Ensure exceptional customer service across all stores by coaching store teams and setting high service standards.
• Maintain and enhance the standards of customer service within the cluster, regularly assessing and improving the customer experience.
• Address customer inquiries and concerns promptly, striving to exceed customer expectations.

Team Management & Development

• Recruit, train, and develop staff on sales techniques, customer service, teamwork, and brand-specific requirements.
• Evaluate the performance of store employees annually, promoting open communication through regular coaching and motivation.
• Schedule and conduct regular staff meetings to communicate goals, performance expectations, and provide constructive feedback.
• Monitor and manage staff scheduling and leave approvals for store managers, ensuring adequate coverage and efficient operation.

Market Analysis & Strategy

• Utilize market insights to identify opportunities for growth and adapt store strategies accordingly within the cluster.
• Stay informed about market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activities specific to the assigned brand and area.

Communication & Reporting

• Communicate business drivers, merchandise issues, and other relevant information to the Area Sales Manager, Retail Operations Manager, and other key stakeholders.
• Prepare and present regular reports on store performance, including successes, challenges, and recommendations for improvement.

Desired Experience:

The ideal candidate should have 4-5 years of experience in retail management, with at least 2-3 years in a multi-store management role, such as multi-unit store manager. Proven track record of successfully overseeing multiple retail stores, particularly in the fashion or related industries.