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