Lyn Kyriacos
Johannesburg,South Africa
Summary
Entrepreneurial and results-driven business leader with extensive experience in launching, growing, and managing multiple successful ventures across retail, healthcare, and service industries. A proven track record as a franchise owner and multi-site operator, including being the first Sorbet franchisee in Northcliff and expanding to four branches, as well as building and selling other businesses such as a dry-cleaning service and food retail outlet.
Combines strong commercial acumen with hands-on operational expertise in staff leadership, financial management, client relations, and business development. Skilled at navigating challenges, from scaling franchises to restructuring operations during Covid-19, with a consistent ability to deliver profitability, efficiency, and customer loyalty. Recognised for resilience, adaptability, and a career that reflects both entrepreneurial drive and corporate account management expertise at national level.
Overview
43
43
years of professional experience
Work history
Practice Manager
Dr Brook Dental
07.2021 - 08.2025
- Oversee daily operations of a busy dental practice, including staff management, scheduling, and patient communication.
- Handle financial functions: billing, reconciliations, debt collection, and supplier payments.
- Implement stock control and process improvements to ensure cost efficiency.
- Manage confidential personal and business affairs for the principal dentist, demonstrating trust and discretion.
Owner & Manager
Savoy Dry Cleaners
01.2019 - 07.2021
- Acquired and successfully managed a well-established dry-cleaning business with 12 employees and multiple long-term corporate contracts.
- Oversaw all operations including staffing, training, payroll, customer service, and quality control, ensuring the highest service standards.
- Negotiated and maintained lucrative contracts, strengthening business reputation and client retention.
- Implemented systems to improve efficiency, streamline workflows, and reduce operational costs.
- Adapted business strategies during the Covid-19 pandemic, including restructuring staff schedules and service models, demonstrating resilience, agility, and strong crisis management.
Co-Owner & Silent Partner
AGW Aluminium & Glass
10.2017 - 12.2019
- Invested in and co-managed an aluminium and glass business, contributing to strategic planning, financial oversight, and growth initiatives.
- Supported operations by advising on business development opportunities, sales approaches, and supplier negotiations.
- Helped establish sustainable structures for long-term operations, later transitioning to a 10% silent shareholding following a change in business ownership.
- Gained valuable experience in manufacturing and B2B sales, broadening entrepreneurial and operational expertise.
Franchise Owner
Sorbet (L Corro, Blairgowrie, Menlyn, Cresta)
01.2009 - 01.2019
- Became the first Sorbet franchisee in Northcliff, expanding portfolio to four branches across high-traffic retail locations.
- Directed all aspects of franchise operations, including recruitment, HR, training, sales, marketing, stock control, and financial management.
- Built high-performing teams through hands-on leadership, staff development, and strong performance culture.
- Implemented marketing campaigns and local community engagement initiatives that significantly increased client loyalty and sales growth.
- Negotiated supplier and landlord agreements to ensure cost efficiency and maximise profitability across multiple sites.
- Successfully exited the business, selling three franchises in 2017 and the final branch in 2019, having established a track record of strong revenue performance and loyal customer bases.
Key Accounts Executive
Creative Productions & SA Greetings
04.1997 - 09.2009
- Handpicked by former management to manage national key accounts, including large chain retailers such as Makro, Clicks, and Trade Centre.
- Oversaw a team of roving merchandisers across multiple regions, ensuring strong product visibility, brand consistency, and sales growth.
- Negotiated terms and managed high-value contracts, consistently meeting and exceeding revenue targets.
- Built and maintained strong client relationships with senior stakeholders, ensuring long-term business retention.
- Played a key role during the company's acquisition and rebranding by American Greetings, supporting operational integration and maintaining stability with clients.
- Recognised for ability to drive sales growth through strategic account management, merchandising excellence, and relationship building.
Founder & Manager
The Pie Works
09.1994 - 03.1997
- Established a successful retail food outlet from concept to daily operation, including store design, staffing, equipment sourcing, and supplier management.
- Created and implemented marketing strategies to attract and retain customers, building a strong local client base.
- Secured a product listing with Norwood Hypermarket’s Kosher Deli, managing daily deliveries, merchandising, and customer service.
- Gained valuable entrepreneurial experience in launching and running a business, balancing financial, operational, and customer-facing responsibilities.
Key Accounts Executive
Sylko Paper
02.1989 - 08.1994
- Promoted from Sales Representative to Key Accounts Executive within four years, reflecting strong sales performance and client management.
- Managed national retail clients including Hypermarket, Hyperama, Makro, Clicks, and Trade Centre.
- Negotiated pricing, contracts, and promotional campaigns, consistently achieving revenue growth targets.
- Strengthened brand presence within the stationery and household goods markets, securing repeat business and long-term relationships.
- Recognised for exceptional commercial acumen and the ability to drive results within competitive retail environments.
Sales Representative
Colcra (Craig Laboratories)
12.1987 - 01.1989
- Managed and serviced an existing client base, increasing market penetration through attentive customer service and consistent follow-up.
- Introduced new products to clients, contributing to revenue growth and stronger market positioning.
- Developed early skills in account management, communication, and relationship-driven sales.
Sales Assistant
Northcliff Bowling Centre
12.1982 - 11.1987
- Worked part-time while studying, managing pro-shop sales, customer support, and event promotion.
- Recruited and encouraged bowlers to participate in leagues and tournaments, helping to grow club membership.
- Developed a strong foundation in customer service, sales, and teamwork.
Sales Assistant
Northcliff Bowling Centre
12.1982 - 11.1987
- Worked part-time while studying, managing pro-shop sales, customer support, and event promotion.
- Recruited and encouraged bowlers to participate in leagues and tournaments, helping to grow club membership.
- Developed a strong foundation in customer service, sales, and teamwork.
Education
Marketing Diploma -
Johannesburg College of Education
JohannesburgHigh School Diploma -
Northcliff High
JohannesburgSkills
- Practice & Business Management
- Key Account Management
- Franchise Operations & Entrepreneurship
- Staff Leadership, Recruitment & Training
- Customer Relations & Retention
- Financial Control & Payroll
- Supplier & Stock Management
- Sales, Marketing & Negotiation
- Crisis & Change Management
- Strategic Planning & Growth
Websites
Timeline
Practice Manager
Dr Brook Dental
07.2021 - 08.2025
Owner & Manager
Savoy Dry Cleaners
01.2019 - 07.2021
Co-Owner & Silent Partner
AGW Aluminium & Glass
10.2017 - 12.2019
Franchise Owner
Sorbet (L Corro, Blairgowrie, Menlyn, Cresta)
01.2009 - 01.2019
Key Accounts Executive
Creative Productions & SA Greetings
04.1997 - 09.2009
Founder & Manager
The Pie Works
09.1994 - 03.1997
Key Accounts Executive
Sylko Paper
02.1989 - 08.1994
Sales Representative
Colcra (Craig Laboratories)
12.1987 - 01.1989
Sales Assistant
Northcliff Bowling Centre
12.1982 - 11.1987
Sales Assistant
Northcliff Bowling Centre
12.1982 - 11.1987
Marketing Diploma -
Johannesburg College of Education
High School Diploma -
Northcliff High
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