An area manager is in charge of multiple locations within a single region. This member of the management team typically reports to executive personnel and has authority over individual store, warehouse, and other facility managers. Many employers prefer candidates with at least four years of management experience, so experience in the industry is usually required. A college diploma can also be beneficial, though it is not required for all jobs.
In some cases, an area manager also supervises one facility on a daily basis, acting as the facility’s manager. Hiring and firing employees, training, and ensuring that company policies are followed at all times are all examples of daily management responsibilities. Employee appearance standards and customer service policies are examples of these. Working in management on the ground can help keep an area manager up to date on job responsibilities and issues that may arise in other locations.
During site visits, the area manager inspects a facility to ensure that it is operating properly. These visits may be unannounced to allow you to observe how people work when they aren’t expecting you. Area managers may request that records be reviewed, offices be examined, and employees be observed as they work on the floor. They look for any violations of company policy, such as people who don’t follow the dress code, cash registers that aren’t properly secured, and other issues. They can also meet with the store manager and other high-ranking employees to discuss any issues and come up with a solution.
An area manager’s personal profit can also be a concern. Store managers are expected to properly place and handle products in order to maximize sales. Developing strategic sales plans, marketing schemes, and other programs to increase customer interest are examples of this. To ensure consistency across the chain of stores and develop ideas for improving sales and customer service experiences, the area manager may collaborate with other managers in the area on promotions, workshops, and trainings.
Area managers may be asked to provide periodic reports to higher-ups in the management chain. Detail financial reporting on various stores, as well as discussions about staffing, issues that have arisen, and marketing strategies, are all possible topics. Area managers may be required to attend events such as manager retreats, training sessions to implement new procedures, and conferences with other managers to discuss management techniques and company values. Subscribing to industry publications and attending outside training opportunities are examples of professional development.