Our Client is a nationally recognized owner, developer, and manager of iconic regional shopping centers, which are known throughout their respective markets for their retail innovation, fashion leadership, distinctive architecture, and luxury appointments.  

OVERVIEW: 

The General Manager is responsible for all Center operations including, but not limited to: 

• Leads the management team in partnership with the Marketing Director. 
• Directs the activities of security, building and grounds maintenance, landscaping, janitorial, construction, risk management, human resources, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and planning. 
• Works in partnership with the Marketing Director ensuring programs are being executed and supporting the marketing team with available resources.   
• Develops and maintains an appropriate level of involvement in community affairs and activities representing both the Center and ownership.  
• Strong understanding of luxury retailers’ brand and image and the ability to support their growth and success. 

LEADERSHIP 

The General Manager is the leader of the operations management team, works in partnership with the marketing director and sets the overall tone for the office operations, by creating value each and every day with a “yes” before “no” mindset.  This includes: 

• Training and development, motivation, and evaluation of the management office team.  Ensuring the management team is performing on brand and meeting or exceeding established goals and objectives. 
• Maintaining open and clear communication with the management office team, home office, vendors, and other staff members. 
• Serving as the brand ambassador for the Center by creating a culture of teamwork and outstanding guest services.  
• Actively seeks new ways to grow and be challenged. 
• Earns the trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity. 
• Ability to address difficult situations, possess the confidence to have challenging conversations and navigate them appropriately. 
• Being nimble and flexible to adapt to the demands of an everchanging retail/operational landscape. 

OPERATIONS 

• Maintain the Center in a manner which is consistent with company standards and brand expectations. 
• Identify existing and potential deficiencies and establish best practice measures to address the conditions and satisfactorily resolve them. 
• Create a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment throughout the building and grounds. 
• Motivate the team to be passionate about the operations so the Center is “show ready” daily. 
• Demonstrate proficiency in the following areas: 
  • Safety and security. 
  • Repairs and maintenance. 
  • Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing. 
  • Information Technology. 
  • Construction, permitting, inspections, architecture. 
  • Risk and crisis management. 

ADMINISTRATION/FINANCIAL 

• Works closely with home office staff, including: accounting, development/construction, and leasing departments.  
• Develops and implements strategic plans that enhance the value and position the Center for unparalleled growth and success.  
• Negotiates, executes, and manages service agreements.  Manages third party performance to ensure they meet company standards.   
• Recommends and manages capital improvements and upgrading existing programs.  
• Produces the annual CAM budget and manages the approved budget throughout the year. 
• Oversees human resources, which include: labor law, hiring practices, employee handbook, staff evaluations and training and development. 
• Demonstrates knowledge of lease administration and often serves as the liaison between the home office and the tenants. 
• Experience with regulatory agencies including: Federal, State, and local statutes and ordinances. 

MARKETING 

• Supports the marketing department with resources in the following areas: 
  • Merchant relations. 
  • Special events / sponsorship and merchant activations. 
  • General strategies. 
• Awareness of merchant sales performance and retail trends and partner with the marketing team to support sales generating initiatives. 
• Establishes a positive working relationship with all merchants at a local, district and, if appropriate, home office level. 

COMMUNITY RELATIONS 

• Works in partnership with the marketing team to position the Center as the prominent market square in the local economy and community. 
• Identify opportunities to create meaningful partnerships and experiences that drive community connections with the Center. 
• Develop mutually beneficial relationships with local leaders, governmental officials, and community organizations and associations. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• College degree preferred. 
• Experience with high profile, luxury-focused properties preferred. 
• Strong leadership/team building/tenant relations skills required. 

About Poline Search Partners

Poline Search Partners is an international executive search firm specializing in the shopping center industry. We serve property owners, developers, retailers and service providers who are seeking remarkable talent and work to align them with candidates who are eager for new growth opportunities. Since 1979, our team has been connecting companies and candidates with a commitment to integrity and client satisfaction—making us the industry’s most trusted leader in recruitment.

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