Experience

• 

  The Meridian Group

  • Malawi

  • GENERAL MANAGER (RETAIL)

    • Feb 2022 - Present
    • Malawi

    On the Board of Directors at Farmers World, Agora and the Farm Services Unit (part of Meridian Group)Lead a team of 1600 employees over 153 agri-retail outlets – (Farmers World and Agora).Handle recruitment, training, and performance evaluations.Actively promote a positive work culture.Develop and implement strategic plans to drive business growth and enhance market share.Oversee and manage day-to-day operations, including supply chain management, inventory control, and logistics.Manage budgetary planning, financial analysis, and performance monitoring.Create and execute customer-centric strategies to improve customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention.Ensure compliance with local and international regulations, industry standards, and ethical practices.Conduct market research and trend analysis, assessing competition and capitalising on growth opportunities.Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, suppliers, distributors, and government authorities. Promote a continuous learning and development culture, providing mentorship and guidance to managers.Identify potential risks to the business and implement risk mitigation strategies. Encourage innovation within the team and adapt to industry changes, technological advancements, and market trends to maintain a competitive edge.Communicate organisational objectives, policies, and expectations effectively to all workforce levels.Address challenges and conflicts promptly.

• 

  Elgin Free Range Chickens

  • Grabow

  • HEAD OF SALES AND MARKETING (EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE)

    • Aug 2019 - Feb 2022
    • Grabow

    Developed and executed a strategic business plan to expand the customer base and enhance market presence.Achieved marketing and sales objectives through comprehensive planning, implementation, and evaluation of advertising, merchandising, and promotion initiatives.Delivered sales, revenue, expense reports, and realistic forecasts to the management team.Drove growth and met sales targets by effectively managing the sales team.Launched promotions and advertising campaigns to enhance market visibility.Cultivated strong business relationships with customers and buyers.Monitored and responded to all customer inquiries promptly.Managed product stock levels efficiently.Negotiated price increases with customers.Identified emerging markets and shifts in the market landscape, keeping updated on new products and competition.Supervised advertising, public relations, and brand management activities.Ensured market representation through branding efforts, including internal branding.

• 

  Builders: Warehouse, Express, Trade Depot, Superstore

  • South Africa
  • Retail
  • 700 & Above Employee

  • TRADE SALES MANAGER

    • Jun 2018 - Aug 2019

    Managed 60 direct reports and a fleet of delivery vehicles.Created and executed sales strategies (surpassing targets across various store formats).Guided and motivated sales teams, providing comprehensive training.Established and nurtured relationships with key clients, driving sales growth and fostering loyalty.Conducted market research to adapt sales approaches based on industry trends and customer preferences.Collaborated with marketing teams to develop effective campaigns for diverse product ranges.Regularly analysed sales data to identify trends, areas for improvement, and successful strategies.Efficiently managed sales budgets to optimise resource allocation and maximise profit margins.Collaborated across departments to ensure seamless sales operations and performance.Emphasised customer service excellence to enhance satisfaction levels and cultivate long-term loyalty.

  • TRADE MANAGER

    • Mar 2017 - Jul 2018

    Managed 70 direct reports and a fleet of delivery vehicles. Set direction, objectives, goals, and strategy for the business. Established clear goals for the sales team and facilitated detailed planning and execution. Cultivated staff development through individualised discussions, career plans, regular feedback, and training.Upheld compliance with relevant laws, policies, and procedures to maintain audit readiness.Managed stock profiles and levels while minimising obsolescence through forecasting and timely action.Delivered returns on investment for shareholders across stock, assets, personnel, and profitability.

• 

  The Shoprite Group of Companies

  • George Area, South Africa

  • GENERAL MANAGER

    • Mar 2006 - Mar 2017
    • George Area, South Africa

    Managed 250 staff and 5 line managers Analysed and interpreted trends and data to improve sales and customer satisfaction.Coordinated with senior supply chain management for efficient service and negotiated exclusive deals. Provided high-quality customer service and managed complaints effectively to maintain excellent relations.Managed operations across all outlets, including supermarkets, liquor stores, fast food outlets, bakeries, delis, fish shops, fresh foods departments, butcheries, and pharmacies.Ensured compliance with operational standards and relevant laws set by Checkers and government divisions.Monitored all departments and outlets to address operational issues promptly.Managed stock using SAP ordering systems.Conducted regular meetings to keep management and staff informed and motivated.Oversaw Health and Safety as the Chief Officer, evaluating and addressing risks consistently.Identified and rectified Health and Safety issues promptly, ensuring compliance among all staff and contractors.

• 

  Famous Brands (Pvt) Ltd.

  • AREA MANAGER

    • Mar 2005 - Feb 2006

• 

  National Car Rental

  • FLEET MANAGER

    • Jan 2003 - Feb 2005