Area Manager - Mattress Retail_Bedding at TFG (The Foschini Group)

Key Responsibilities: 

• Oversee Store Operations: Manage the day-to-day operations of multiple mattress stores, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and consistency across locations. 
• Staff Recruitment, Training & Development: Lead the recruitment, training, and ongoing development of store staff to ensure they are knowledgeable about mattress products, sleep solutions, and prescribed sales techniques. Drive product training programs to maintain expertise in mattress specifications, materials, and the benefits of sleep. 
• Sales Leadership: Actively drive sales by developing and executing strategies that meet or exceed sales targets. This includes understanding the nuances of mattress sales, which require deep product knowledge, personalised customer interaction, and a consultative approach to selling, as opposed to traditional sales techniques used in categories like fashion or apparel. A successful mattress sale often hinges on guiding the customer through a process of finding the right sleep solution for their needs and comfort preferences. Train and inspire teams to engage with customers in a way that maximizes conversion and average order value, using upselling and cross-selling techniques effectively. 
• Team Leadership: Inspire, motivate, and lead store managers and sales consultants, fostering a high-performance team environment. Provide coaching, feedback, and leadership to ensure the achievement of sales goals and adherence to store targets. Cultivate a leadership style that motivates teams to maintain high standards of performance, accountability, and customer service. 
• Customer Experience Management: Fully understand the importance of servicing customers excellently and creating a personalized shopping experience. Address customer concerns promptly and be willing and able to personally resolve complaints as they arise, ensuring loyalty and repeat business. Develop a culture where customer service is not just a goal, but a continuous practice of engagement and care. 
• Visual Merchandising & Store Presentation: Ensure stores maintain a welcoming, clean, and visually appealing layout that highlights the range of mattress options, promotions, and accessories. Maintenance of product displays to attract customers and enhance the buying experience. 
• Inventory Control & Merchandising: Monitor inventory levels, ensure product availability, and collaborate with the merchandise department to optimize stock levels. Manage product returns, exchanges, and warranty claims according to company policies. 
• Budget & Financial Management: Manage store budgets, monitor expenses, and control costs while maintaining profitability. Ensure stores achieve financial goals by balancing sales targets with operational efficiency. 
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all stores comply with company policies and industry regulations related to health & safety (OHASA). 
• Reporting & Analysis: Review performance reports on sales, staffing, customer feedback, and inventory availability. Regularly analyse data to identify opportunities for improvement and share findings with senior management. 

Qualification and Experience:

• Must have Grade 12. 
• Proven experience in retail management, preferably in mattress retail or a related field (3+ years preferred). 
• Proven track record of success in meeting and exceeding sales targets for both individual and store/area performance 
• In-depth knowledge of mattress products, sleep solutions, and the mattress retail market. 
• Financial acumen with experience in managing budgets and cost control. 
• Experience managing multiple locations in a consumer-focused industry. 
• Previous experience with high-ticket retail sales (e.g., mattresses, furniture, or other durable goods).