Assistant Manager - Retail Operations

About:Alef Group is a pioneer in developing premier lifestyle communities, destinations, and experiences through investment and strategic joint ventures, and is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Assistant Manager – Retail Operations with specific experience of managing mall operations and retail outlets in mixed-use or residential communities to join our team in Sharjah.Job Purpose:The Assistant Manager – Retail Operations is responsible for managing and supporting the day-to-day operational activities of Zero 6 Mall and the retail outlets within the company’s residential communities. The role ensures that retail assets operate at the highest standards, delivering an excellent shopping and lifestyle experience for visitors, residents, and tenants. The position focuses on tenant relations, facilities coordination, customer service, and operational compliance, while also supporting events, marketing initiatives, and financial performance.Key Accountabilities:Mall & Retail Operations ManagementOversee the daily operations of Zero 6 Mall and retail outlets in residential projects to ensure smooth functioning.Conduct regular inspections of common areas, retail outlets, and facilities to ensure compliance with health, safety, and quality standards.Support the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for mall and retail operations.Ensure timely resolution of operational issues including maintenance, security, cleaning, and utilities.Tenant Relations & CoordinationAct as the primary point of contact for tenants in Zero 6 Mall and community retail outlets regarding operational concerns.Coordinate tenant onboarding, fit-out approvals, shop opening procedures, and compliance with design/brand guidelines.Monitor tenant adherence to lease terms, operating hours, and mall regulations.Address tenant complaints promptly and escalate complex issues to the Manager / Head of Retail Operations.Customer Experience & EngagementEnsure a high level of customer service and visitor satisfaction across Zero 6 Mall and retail outlets.Support the marketing and events team in executing mall promotions, community activations, and seasonal campaigns.Monitor customer feedback and suggest initiatives to enhance the shopping and lifestyle experience.Facilities & Vendor ManagementLiaise with facilities management teams and external vendors (security, cleaning, MEP, landscaping) to ensure service quality.Track service provider performance through regular audits and SLA monitoring.Support sustainability initiatives and energy efficiency projects across retail properties.Financial & Compliance ManagementAssist in preparing and monitoring annual operating budgets for Zero 6 Mall and retail outlets.Support the Finance team in service charge reconciliation, vendor payments, and cost control initiatives.Ensure compliance with Sharjah Municipality, Civil Defense, RERA, and other UAE regulatory requirements.Maintain accurate records of contracts, insurance, and statutory approvals for tenants and vendors.Reporting & AnalysisPrepare and maintain reports on operational performance, tenant compliance, customer footfall, and revenue.Track key operational KPIs such as occupancy, service standards, and customer satisfaction.Provide management with insights on operational challenges and recommendations for improvement.Team Support & DevelopmentSupervise and guide operational support staff across Zero 6 Mall and community retail.Ensure the team follows established processes and delivers high-quality services.Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and tenant/customer experience.Educational Qualifications, Work Experience, and Skills Required:Educational Qualification & Certifications:Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Facilities Management, Real Estate, or equivalent.Work Experience:Must have a minimum of 5–7 years of experience in retail operations or mall management, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory/assistant manager role.Prior experience managing mall operations and retail outlets in mixed-use or residential communities is highly preferred.Skills required:Strong knowledge of mall operations, community retail management, and tenant coordination.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for managing tenants, customers, and service providers.Problem-solving mindset with the ability to handle operational issues under pressure.Knowledge of Sharjah retail property regulations and compliance requirements.Proficiency in MS Office; experience with CAFM, ERP, or mall management systems is an advantage.Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to multitask.Familiarity with customer service standards and event support in retail environments.Bilingual (English and Arabic) is preferred.