Head of Retail

Our client, a major player in the sports betting industry, is looking for an accomplished Head of Retail to take charge of their nationwide retail operations.

This is a pivotal leadership role for someone who thrives in high-growth, fast-paced environments and understands how to balance strategic vision with operational excellence.

The Role

As Head of Retail, you will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of retail operations from strategy and rollout to day-to-day execution. Youll drive market expansion, optimise performance across existing outlets, and ensure that every customer who walks into a branch experiences the highest level of service, compliance, and engagement.

This role demands a hands-on leader with a strong commercial mind, proven operational track record, and the ability to lead large teams across multiple locations. Youll work closely with the executive team to shape the retail strategy and make a tangible impact on business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Retail Strategy & Growth:
• Define and deliver the retail growth roadmap, including new site identification, lease negotiations, and rollout planning.
• Ensure retail expansion aligns with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and market demand.
• Operational Leadership:
• Oversee day-to-day operations across all outlets, setting and enforcing operational standards.
• Implement robust processes for cash management, security, staffing, and reporting.
• Use data and analytics to monitor performance, identify gaps, and introduce solutions that improve efficiency and profitability.
• Commercial Performance:
• Take ownership of retail P&L, ensuring strong revenue performance and effective cost management.
• Develop sales strategies, promotions, and customer engagement initiatives that increase footfall and spend per customer.
• People & Culture:
• Lead, coach, and inspire regional managers, store managers, and frontline staff to deliver high standards.
• Build a strong performance-driven culture across the retail division with clear KPIs and accountability.
• Compliance & Risk Management:
• Ensure all outlets operate within South African betting regulations and company policies.
• Drive responsible gaming initiatives and ensure training programmes are in place for compliance awareness.
• Customer Experience:
• Champion a consistent and engaging customer journey across the retail estate.
• Introduce innovations that improve customer convenience, from in-shop betting technology to loyalty initiatives.

What Were Looking For

• At least 810 years experience in multi-site retail operations, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven success in sports betting, lottery, gaming, or high-volume retail.
• Demonstrated ability to grow and scale retail networks while managing operational complexity.
• Strong commercial acumen with direct experience managing P&L.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills with the ability to drive performance across dispersed teams.
• Deep understanding of the regulatory landscape in South Africa.
• Resilient, adaptable, and able to thrive in a competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

Why This Role?

• Shape the national retail footprint of a leading operator in South Africas booming sports betting industry.
• Be part of an executive-level leadership team, influencing strategy and direction.
• Lead a division that is both highly profitable and central to long-term business growth.
• Competitive executive package, including bonus and performance incentives.

This is a career-defining role for a seasoned retail leader who wants to make an immediate and lasting impact in the gaming and sports betting industry.