Kosovo Operation Manager

About Unifree Duty Free

Unifree Duty Free has spent over four decades creating standout travel retail experiences through a carefully selected mix of products and globally recognized brands, all within contemporary and appealing store environments. As a major operator in the travel retail sector, the company serves millions of passengers across Istanbul, Dalaman, Kosovo Airports, and Dereköy Border Gate.

At Pristina Adem Jashari International Airport, Unifree has operated the duty free stores exclusively since 2012. The site covers 934 m² in total retail space and includes two departure stores, one arrival store, and one local store, offering travelers a broad shopping experience with premium international labels and quality merchandise.

Unifree places strong value on its people and promotes a workplace culture centered on teamwork, collaboration, mutual respect, and ongoing growth. The company supports fresh ideas and encourages employees to develop their capabilities to the fullest.

Role Overview

The company is seeking a senior leader to assume overall accountability for the Kosovo operation. This includes store operations, relationships with public and governmental bodies, customs procedures, human resources, and financial performance. The role reports directly to the COO.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the main representative for the Kosovo operation with public authorities, customs officials, and aviation authorities.
• Work with the Store Manager to build the annual sales budget and monitor team delivery against targets.
• Take ownership of profit and loss performance as well as inventory control.
• Review and ensure adherence to OHS, data protection, and ISMS requirements through regular checks and audits.
• Support employee growth and performance through coaching, mentoring, and day-to-day leadership.
• Create and implement local expansion plans that align with broader company goals.
• Track store performance and initiate actions to improve sales and profitability.
• Oversee all operational areas in the country, including sales, retail operations, logistics, and human resources.
• Maintain effective coordination and communication with headquarters.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree is required; a master’s degree will be considered an advantage.
• At least 15 years of overall experience in retail, ideally with international exposure.
• Prior management experience abroad, preferably at country leadership or operations leadership level.
• Advanced command of English, both written and spoken.
• Strong skills in negotiation, stakeholder representation, and communication.
• Ability to think strategically and make decisions across multiple business dimensions.
• Comfort working with diverse cultures and leading organizational change.
• Must be willing and able to travel without restrictions.

Additional Information

This position involves responsibility for the full Kosovo operation and requires close interaction with external institutions, internal leadership, and cross-functional teams. The role is suited to a senior retail operations professional with a strong international background and the ability to manage complex business, regulatory, and people-related priorities.