Field Operations Manager – FMCG Industry | Northern Suburbs (Cape)
Company: Confidential (FMCG Sector)
Location: Northern Suburbs, Cape Town, Western Cape
Date Posted: 14 May 2025
Reference Number: SM-6531
Job Type: Permanent
Work Level: Management
Employment Equity: No
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
About the Company
A prominent company in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector is actively recruiting an experienced Field Operations Manager to oversee sales and retail execution across the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. The organization is a key player in retail innovation and distribution, working with national and regional stores to ensure product visibility, execution excellence, and customer satisfaction. This role plays a pivotal function in enhancing business operations, aligning execution to strategy, and supporting sales growth in competitive markets.
Role Overview
The Field Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing field sales activities, promotional execution, stock optimization, and people management across key retail outlets. This leadership role is ideal for a candidate who combines strong operational expertise with commercial awareness and the ability to drive performance through a structured, data-driven approach. With a direct influence on executional success and market penetration, this role ensures that strategies turn into tangible retail results.
Key Responsibilities
Expense Control and Operational Oversight
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Manage and monitor budgets related to travel, communication, fuel, vehicle maintenance, training, and other operational expenditures
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Ensure cost-efficiency without compromising execution quality
Business Insights and Execution
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Collect, analyse and apply sales and market data to identify new opportunities
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Deliver insights to clients for continuous improvement and innovation in sales strategy
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Lead planning and implementation of customer-based operations informed by sales intelligence
Innovation Monitoring and Deployment
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Introduce new product listings and track speed to market
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Provide feedback on innovation performance and competitor activities
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Ensure field force is well-informed and equipped to support new innovations
Promotional Activity Management
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Communicate time frames and promotional objectives to the field team
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Ensure accurate POS distribution and stock readiness ahead of campaigns
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Analyse results to ensure alignment with sales goals
Achievement of Point-of-Purchase Objectives
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Execute and maintain planograms in accordance with market data and rate of sale
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Improve shelf health and ensure market share is reflected in-store
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Monitor and implement store-specific category flows
Sales and Target Execution
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Drive ad-hoc promotional initiatives to maximize product exposure
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Ensure optimal stock levels and reduce out-of-stock situations
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Identify in-store cross-merchandising opportunities to improve forward share
Operational Excellence and Efficiency
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Ensure flexible and efficient allocation of staff and resources
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Promote sales initiatives that enhance customer value and operational performance
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Maintain systems that streamline day-to-day execution and feedback
Stakeholder and Client Engagement
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Compile trade and contact reports for internal and external stakeholders
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Conduct review meetings with regional managers and clients
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Maintain communication with depots and stores regarding stock levels, innovations, deliveries, and pricing
People Management and Team Development
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Take responsibility for recruitment, training, performance management, and succession planning
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Motivate team members, delegate effectively, and foster accountability
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Manage employee relations, dress code compliance, and health and safety requirements
Minimum Requirements
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4–5 years of experience in Operations Management within the FMCG industry
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Managerial or supervisory background is essential
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Relevant Diploma or Degree (NQF Level 6 or 7)
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Valid Code 08 driver’s licence
Skills and Competencies
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Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
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Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written)
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Business acumen and commercial awareness
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Computer literacy and analytical mindset
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Ability to solve complex problems and implement strategic solutions
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Effective negotiation and sales management skills
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a market-related salary package, aligned with experience and industry benchmarks. The role includes performance incentives, travel reimbursements, and career advancement potential within a fast-paced, competitive sector.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in this exciting opportunity should prepare a comprehensive CV, including detailed achievements in operational management, sales execution, and leadership. Submit your application via the employer’s portal or preferred recruitment platform. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Explore Related Opportunities
If you’re interested in field operations, sales management, or supervisory roles within the FMCG or retail sectors, consider exploring these relevant vacancies:
These roles are designed for professionals who thrive in dynamic environments and are passionate about achieving excellence in the consumer goods industry.
