Store Development Manager

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for property development and retail expansion? We’re looking for a Store Development Manager to join our team and play a vital role in shaping the future of our retail spaces.

As our Store Development Manager, you’ll lead and manage the full store development lifecycle, from inception to final handover, in line with the company’s property strategy.

You’ll be responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of all store projects (including new stores, revamps, relocations, and closures), ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to standard. Your work will directly support our growth, profitability, and market share goals by optimising capital investment and space utilisation.

You’ll act as the central link between internal stakeholders (such as our furniture and fittings teams, property division, and field operations) and external partners (including landlords and contractors). You'll ensure clear communication, design and installation consistency, and that stores are handed over fully compliant and ready to trade.

This role also leads a team of five Project Managers and one Estimator, providing strategic direction, technical oversight, and operational support across all store development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Resource & Project Delivery:

• Deliver the annual store development plan through effective utilisation of resources:
• People
• Capital expenditure (Capex)
• Suppliers & contractors
• Ensure projects meet internal and external customer expectations across:
• New store openings
• Revamps
• Relocations
• Store closures
  

Stakeholder & Supplier Management:

• Manage key vendor relationships and continuously assess supplier performance
• Engage cross-functionally with key internal stakeholders to support business priorities
• Oversee communication related to project timelines, execution, and property interventions
  
  

Strategic Property Support:

• Identify property development opportunities in line with long-term business strategy
• Conduct feasibility surveys and cost estimations
• Implement approved interventions and monitor delivery
  
  

Management & Oversight:

• Financial management of project budgets and reporting
• Talent management, including leadership of project teams and external partners
  
  

What We’re Looking For:

Knowledge & Skills:

• Advanced computer literacy (MS Office); MS Projects is advantageous
• Ability to read and interpret building plans and store layouts
• Strong project management and budgeting skills
• Solid understanding of store design, space planning, fixtures, and fittings
• Familiarity with construction processes and municipal regulations
• Knowledge of internal store rollout processes (advantageous)
• Strong analytical, numerical, and decision-making capabilities
• Leadership, team collaboration, and supplier management skills
• Working knowledge of building legislation and compliance
• Proven ability to build effective relationships with a range of stakeholders
  
  

Qualifications & Experience:

Essential:

• Degree or Diploma in Project Management, Construction Management, or Quantity Surveying
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in store design, development, or project management
• At least 2 years’ experience in team leadership
• Retail experience will be advantageous
• Experience resolving building-related issues (e.g. VOCs and SNAGs)
• Sound knowledge of local municipality regulations
• Ability to interpret complex drawings and construction plans
  
  

If you’re detail-oriented, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and are passionate about shaping impactful retail spaces, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of building the future of retail at Ackermans!