General Manager - Retail - KSA

We are seeking an experienced General Manager to lead the launch and growth of innovative retail formats across the GCC, with a primary focus on Saudi Arabia. This role involves developing scalable operations for soft discounters and convenience stores, aligned with market trends and customer behavior in the region.

The primary goal is to validate the business model through pilot stores (4-5 locations) and confirm sales density. Upon successful validation, the rollout will expand to 50-70 stores, followed by scaling operations to over 1,000 locations to solidify long-term growth and profitability.

As General Manager, you will shape the strategy, operationalize pilot stores, lead cross-functional teams, and ensure smooth, budget-conscious expansion.

Strategy Development:

• Transform strategic investment goals into actionable plans, identifying required resources such as talent, processes, and systems.
• Report progress to shareholders, highlighting challenges and recommended solutions.

Developing and Executing Pilot Stores:

• Refine the customer value proposition (CVP) based on market research, including focus groups and surveys.
• Design the go-to-market plan, covering assortment, pricing, promotions, private labels, and customer experience.
• Set measurable goals, budgets, and timelines for the pilot phase.
• Recruit and onboard key personnel for store management and operations.
• Manage site selection, supply chain coordination, store layout, and in-store operations.
• Continuously refine operations and commercial strategies through test-and-learn cycles.

Scaling Successful Formats:

• Build systems and processes to support a scalable retail operation.
• Expand the team as needed across operations, supply chain, and commercial functions.
• Integrate with existing shareholder systems (e.g., IT, finance, HR) to ensure seamless growth.
• Define budgets, timelines, and goals for the rollout phase and ensure delivery within scope.

• Advanced degree in Business Administration (MBA preferred).
• 10+ years of leadership experience in retail, preferably within the GCC region.
• Proven track record in senior roles (CEO, COO, CCO preferred).
• Expertise in managing multiple retail formats, including discounters and convenience stores.
• Fluency in English (Arabic is a plus).

• Expertise in launching retail operations across diverse markets.
• Skilled in building and leading high-performing teams to achieve business goals.
• Deep understanding of customer-centric retail strategies and experience with proximity formats.
• Experience developing efficient processes and systems to optimize store performance.
• Strong data-driven mindset, using analytics to guide decisions and foster growth.

• Ambitious, self-motivated, and results-oriented leader.
• Strategic thinker with exceptional problem-solving skills.
• Excellent team management and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Clear, effective communicator with strong written and verbal skills.