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.

Role Overview:

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.

Key Responsibilities:

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.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 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).

Core Skills and Competencies:

• 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.

Personal Attributes:

• 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.