Real Estate Manager ( ROA - Rest Of Africa ) at Woolworths

Introduction

• To Identify and maintain profitable and sustainable trading locations. Manage our current portfolio and focus on unlocking value through effective deal negotiations to deliver future growth across the African Continent.

Job description
Retail Space Acquisition & Leasing:

• Lead negotiations for retail store leases, renewals, and expansions across various locations in Africa to drive store growth plan
• Identify, evaluate, and secure retail properties that align with the brand's growth strategy and customer base.
• Negotiate lease terms, rental rates, and other conditions to maximize profitability and operational flexibility

Deal Structuring & Negotiations:

• Structure and negotiate leases, rental agreements, and other retail-related real estate deals that align with business objectives.
• Develop strong relationships with landlords, brokers, and other key stakeholders to negotiate optimal agreements (new sites and existing buildings)
• Structure deals for closure and relocations by analysing and implementing existing lease agreements.
• Identify underperforming properties and recommend strategies for lease renegotiations, terminations, or relocations.

Market Research & Site Selection:

• Conduct thorough market research to identify new retail opportunities, emerging markets, and high-potential locations for store openings or relocations.
• Analyze demographic trends, foot traffic, competitor positioning, and other factors to ensure the selection of prime retail locations.
• Evaluate potential locations based on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as location, accessibility, customer traffic, and rental rates.

Financial Analysis & Budgeting:

• Prepare and analyze financial models to assess the feasibility of retail space acquisitions and leasing deals, including rent-to-revenue ratios and ROI.
• Develop budgets and forecasts for real estate transactions and track the performance of retail properties.
• Ensure that all real estate decisions align with the overall business strategy and financial goals.
• Assist in collating information to analyse and calculate rental and deal structuring for extensions and refurbishments.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Ensure that all real estate transactions comply with regulations, as well as company policies.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with market conditions, lease terms, and property ownership.
• Manage disputes or issues related to lease agreements, maintenance, or property management.
• Resolve and/or refer real estate maintenance and technical issues on day-to-day basis.

Stakeholder Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, developers, brokers, and other real estate professionals, including the business areas ( Food, Fashion, Beauty, Home and Divisional/Regional operational teams).
• Work closely with senior management to review and evaluate retail space performance and opportunities for value creation
• Network and build relationships with the property professionals/stakeholders to create awareness of Woolworths’ requirements.
• Liaison with landlords on property issues including maintenance

Minimum requirements

• Relevant degree or Diploma.
• 8-10 years relevant experience in Retail Property and Development within Africa
• Previous proven experience in retail real estate, with a focus on leasing, deal structuring across Africa
• Comprehensive knowledge and deep understanding of the various African countries
• Ability to navigate the real estate sector in a diverse African continent.
• Understand the general real estate trends and the specific cultural, economic, and legal factors that influence property markets in these countries
• Proven experience negotiating complex retail leases, with a strong ability to close deals that align with business objectives.
• In-depth experience in negotiating retail leases and acquisitions, understanding of retail market dynamics, and familiarity with commercial real estate within Africa
• Knowledge of retail locations and general shopping centre layouts across Africa
• Ability to analyse financial data, market trends, and site performance to make informed real estate decisions.
• Experience managing multiple real estate projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in financial modelling, budgeting, and forecasting, with a strong understanding of key financial metrics (e.g., rent-to-sales ratio, occupancy cost, ROI).
• Excellent communication skills – verbal, written and presentation skills
• Thinking and influencing strategically and commercially
• Must be able to travel