Retail Manager
OFO No: 142101
Other names for Retail Manager:
- Retail Store Manager
- Shop Manager
- Shop Owner
What is a Retail Manager?
Also known as a Store Manager, Shop Manager or Shop Owner.
A Retail Manager is responsible for running a store or a single department inside a large company/shop.
They are in charge of planning, organising, directing, controlling and reviewing the operating skills and work of the staff within a specific area.
Their main job is to maximise profit.
Retail Managers work in either wholesale or retail outlets.
What does a Retail Manager do?
- designs and sets daily operational objectives and tasks for the staff
- makes sure these objectives are met
- directs and co-ordinates budgets
- manages theft, damage and loss
- monitors staff performance
- maintains records
- trains and supervises staff
- adheres to health and safety regulations
- directs sales plans through timely promotions, displays etc
- manages stock
- deals with customer complaints and queries
- is constantly designing new, more profitable strategies and implementing them
- promotes image of the store/company
Are you … ?
- a good communicator?
- organised?
- good with people?
- motivational?
- good with mathematics?
- computer literate?
- a good planner?
How do I become a Retail Manager?
In some cases you can start at the very bottom in a large chain store (eg shelf packer, till packer or cashier) and then work your way up.
A lot of the larger stores offer their young staff in-house training. If you show initiative and hard work – they will take you under their wing and train you.
Before you know it, you could be heading up an entire department or opening up your own shop!
Another way is to get tertiary studies behind your name:
Qualifications and requirements: A NQF Level 5, Higher Diploma or National Diploma or relevant degree. You will probably need at least 2 years managerial experience too. A role-specific technical qualification could also be advantageous.
PATH 1
Occupational Certificacte in Retail Management
PATH 2
Diploma in Retail Management
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Tshwane University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
- UNISA
- Vaal University
Workplace experience
PATH 3
Diploma in Retail Management
- As above
Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Retail Management
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Vaal University
Workplace experience
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education.
- CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Cashier … or … Customer Service Manager
Is becoming a Retail Manager the right career choice for me?
