POSITION SUMMARY:  The General Manager is tasked with protecting and enhancing the owner’s retail real estate asset(s) by identifying center objectives, managing expenses, and generating revenue. They will drive operational success, possess leadership qualities and be a key contributor to total asset value.

Candidate should be enthusiastic and have a high energy level. They should thrive in a dynamic work environment and be able to direct a wide group of direct reports in varying disciplines with varying degrees of experience.     

This is a regular, full-time, in-person role based in a major city in the Midwest.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Financial Performance & NOI Results – Drive Net Operating Income (NOI) through expense management, local leasing (short-term tenants, pop-ups, partnerships), alternative revenue (storage, media, etc.), and net profit programs (e.g., parking services, redistribution).
• Budgeting, Forecasting, and Management of Financials – Lead the development and execution of monthly financial reporting, annual property operating budgets, capital planning, and forecasting processes in coordination with corporate teams.
• Lease Compliance & Retailer Relations – Enforce lease provisions, ensure compliance with all lease terms & proactively respond to tenant issues while building strong relationships within the tenant community
• Strategic Planning & Budgeting – Develop and implement a Strategic Business Plan aligned with ownership’s goals, create and manage the property budget, and oversee financial forecasting, tax obligations, and reporting.
• Leasing & Merchandising Strategy – Develop strong relationships with leasing teams, participate in property merchandising strategies, and review lease drafts for property implications. Retain occupancy.
• Capital Improvements & Maintenance Oversight – Collaborate with construction and design teams to identify capital improvement projects, manage the local capital budget, and implement maintenance programs to ensure a top-tier retail environment.
• Community & Stakeholder Engagement – Enhance the shopping center’s role as a community leader by building partnerships and engaging with local organizations to strengthen market presence.
• Operations & Vendor Management – Maximize efficiency of contracted services, oversee bid processes, and maintain ethical, professional vendor relationships to ensure superior operational standards.
• Security & Safety – Work with security service providers to implement a customized safety and security program, ensuring a safe and welcoming shopping environment.
• Marketing & Consumer Engagement – Support marketing initiatives that drive foot traffic, enhance retailer sales, and utilize technology, social media, and data analytics to optimize customer experience.
• Team Leadership & Development – Build and mentor a highly skilled onsite team, identify necessary training tools, and ensure optimal performance across all roles.
• Legal & Compliance Coordination – Liaise with legal teams on tenant disputes, lease conflicts, and local litigation while ensuring compliance with property management agreements, REAs, COREAs, and governing documents.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Results Driven Self-Starter.
• Leadership/People management.
• Tenant and Stakeholder Relations.
• Business and Financial Acumen.
• Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience in retail real estate management/property management/hospitality/retail.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the shopping center industry.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to read and interpret complex documents.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with emphasis on Word and Excel.
• Ability to adapt to a changing work environment.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends and holidays.

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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