Purpose of the Role

The Specialist Service Areas will oversee all Fresh Food Departments within Model stores to ensure exceptional product quality, availability, profitability, and customer satisfaction. The successful candidate will act as the custodian of Fresh Department standards, driving operational discipline, consistency, innovation, and world-class customer experiences while maximizing sales and minimizing waste. 

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant qualification in Food Production, Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Retail Management, or related field.
• Alternatively, extensive practical experience within a Fresh Food retail environment.
• Minimum 3-5 years' management experience within Fresh Food Retail, FMCG, Food Production, Hospitality, or a related industry.
• Demonstrated experience managing perishable products.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen.
• Proven experience analyzing sales reports and implementing improvement strategies.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel between stores.

Advantageous

• Chef's Diploma or equivalent culinary qualification.
• Experience in multi-site retail operations.
• ARCH system experience.
• Experience leading Bakery, Deli, Meat, Produce, or Hot Foods departments.
• Exposure to food safety compliance and operational audits.
• Experience in staff development, coaching, and performance management.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Excellence

• Ensure consistent execution of Fresh Department standards across all stores.
• Conduct operational audits and implement corrective actions.
• Drive adherence to food safety, quality, and health standards.
• Support stores with training, coaching, and operational guidance.

Customer Experience

• Enhance customer attraction through effective merchandising and promotions.
• Ensure outstanding product presentation and freshness standards.
• Gather customer feedback and implement improvements.
• Partner with Marketing on fresh food campaigns and seasonal promotions.

Profitability & Commercial Performance

• Analyze sales, waste, stockholding, and profitability reports.
• Drive initiatives to reduce shrinkage and improve gross profit.
• Review ARCH reports and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Ensure promotional plans are effectively executed.

Product Quality & Availability

• Ensure high product availability across all Fresh Departments.
• Monitor supplier performance and product standards.
• Stay informed on market trends and customer preferences.
• Drive continuous improvement of product ranges, recipes, and costings.

Leadership & Team Development

• Coach, mentor, and develop Fresh Department teams.
• Support recruitment for key fresh department positions.
• Conduct performance reviews and performance improvement initiatives.
• Foster accountability and operational excellence.

Closing Date: 11 November 2026

 OL - Authentic, Caring & Passionate

Applicants meeting our requirements are invited to apply. OL 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: 6154