It is necessary to have retail management experience in order to become a retail regional manager. Experience working with the types of retail merchandise that the company hiring for the regional manager position specializes in is especially beneficial. A candidate for a regional manager position with a shoe company, for example, should have retail management experience as well as footwear experience. It is also advantageous to have prior experience as a sales associate in order to advance to the position of retail regional manager. Because sales associates make up the majority of the staff in retail stores, managers benefit greatly from understanding their perspectives.
Working as an assistant manager or regional manager’s assistant can also be beneficial. For someone aspiring to be a retail regional manager, either position would be a good starting point. A worker who works as an assistant regional manager or simply as an assistant to the regional manager of a retail company can learn the ins and outs of the position and how the regional manager operates and manages duties.
When the person whom they assist retires or moves on to another position, either within the company or elsewhere, it is common for assistants to be promoted to their superior’s position. As a result, working as an assistant frequently positions an employee to advance to the position of retail regional manager. However, if the regional manager shows no signs of retiring or moving to another position, the assistant position can be held for two to three years before the assistant moves on to work for another company as a retail regional manager.
Taking business and sales classes is beneficial for anyone who aspires to be a retail regional manager. If there are any courses available that are specific to one’s industry, taking them is also beneficial. Courses in management are also beneficial and can provide the skills and knowledge required to become a retail regional manager. All of these courses can be taken while pursuing a business or management associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in business and management. It is beneficial for students to gain experience in retail at lower levels while still in school.