Palesa Kikine

Results-driven Retail Store Manager with over 10 years of experience leading high-performing retail stores. Proven ability to drive strong sales growth, build engaged teams, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Experienced in developing and coaching store leaders and executing visual merchandising strategies to create seamless shopping experiences.

Skilled in performance management, wage and schedule control, operational compliance, and store profitability. Passionate about developing people, strengthening brand culture, and delivering measurable business results.

Store Manager at QUIKSILVER (2021-08 – Present)

• Oversee daily store operations including stock management, cash-ups, banking, audits, and compliance.
• Receive ongoing mentorship from Area Manager on multi-store operations and gaining exposure in regional management responsibilities including performance analysis, strategic decision making and planning.
• Support neighbouring stores during stock takes, peak of trading periods and daily operational challenges.
• Monitor stock levels, stock losses, and overall stock performance.
• Communicate regularly with buying and merchandising teams to improve product performance.
• Execute seasonal campaigns and promotions effectively.
• Implement retail strategies to improve overall store performance.
• Ensure strong visual presentation and product displays and maintain strong brand standards across footwear and clothing categories.
• Build and sustain high-performance retail culture in-store.
• Support recruitment and onboarding.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and drive team leadership and development.
• Ensure the store operates according to company standards and retail procedures.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team to deliver strong customer experiences and achieve business targets.
• Drive consistent year-on-year turnover growth through strong sales leadership and team engagement.
• Coach team members to deliver excellent service and multiple positive brand experiences for customers.
• Train, and mentor staff to strengthen team capability and succession planning.
• Maintain shrinkage at approximately 0.2% through effective stock control and loss prevention strategies.
• Monitor daily sales performance and motivate the team to exceed store targets.

Store Manager at CONTEMPO (2019-01 – 2021-08)

• Led and developed a team of 10+ staff members to achieve sales, service, and operational targets.
• Managed store budgets, expenses, and wage control to maintain profitability.
• Ensured visual merchandising standards and strong brand presentation across the store.
• Built a culture focused on teamwork, customer service, and performance.

Assistant Store Manager at CONTEMPO (2016-07 – 2019-01)

• Assisted in managing daily store operations and supervising team members.
• Supported sales planning, stock management, and team training initiatives.

Trainee Supervisor at ACKERMANS (2015-12 – 2016-06)

• Supervised tills, handled cash management, and completed daily cash-ups.

Sales Assistant / Cashier at ACKERMANS (2013-10 – 2015-11)

Higher Certificate in Business Management in Business Management – IQ Academy (2026)

Matric Certificate – Hoërskool Ficksburg (2012)