Description

Companies involved in retailing afford the graduate an early opportunity to use professional knowledge to improve company profits through the maintenance of appropriate assortments of goods and services in locations easily accessible to customers.

Career Opportunities

Historically, starting pay and job assignment in retailing have been at lower levels in terms of salary and initial responsibility.  However, opportunity for advancement has been strong.  Among the wide variety of routes to top management in retailing are merchandise management and store management. The progression in the former would be from assistant buyer to merchandise division manager.  For the latter, it would be assistant department (sales) manager to department manager to store (branch) manager. The buyer is primarily concerned with assortment selection and promotion. The department manager is concerned with sales force management and display.

Entry Level Positions

Entry-level positions in retailing management include Assistant Buyer positions, and Department Manager positions.  The larger chain and department stores have formal training programs for retail management, some of which are among the best in the country.

Requisite Personal Qualities

Leadership, communication skills, ability to work in fast-paced environment, knowledge of the store environment, and results-oriented motivation characterize those poised for success in retailing management. 

Academic Preparation

A diverse background often characterizes retailing management positions.  Knowledge of sales and selling techniques is important.  Emphasis in retailing is a plus but is not required.