What they do
Retail managers oversee the running of shops, supermarkets and other retail outlets located across Western Australia. They manage the work of other staff, as well as train new staff, organise and manage stock, set and display pricing, and may also undertake sales duties such as processing transactions and wrapping purchases. They work with a variety of people, including staff, customers, suppliers and sales representatives, couriers and people from other businesses, as well as financial managers, advertisers and tradespeople. They also need to ensure the compliance of occupational health and safety regulations.
Working conditions
Retail managers work in a variety of retail outlets such as large franchise businesses that include supermarkets and department stores, through to boutiques and smaller single-outlet stores. They usually work indoors, although some may work in warehouses or outside, depending on where their stock is stored. They may work either full-time or part-time, and may work evenings or weekends. They are often required to work longer hours than the sales staff in their store.
Tools and technologies
Retail managers use cash registers, computers, calculators and EFTPOS machines. They may need to be familiar with word processing or data management programmes. Depending on the type of retail outlet they work in they may also use equipment that measures stock.
They need to be highly familiar with the goods they sell and any related or accompanying products that enable their use.
How do I become one?
Education and training
It is possible to work as a retail manager without any formal qualifications and get training on the job. However, entry into this occupation may be improved by obtaining a qualification in retail management. Most employers will also require those working in retail management roles to have experience using leadership skills in a related industry or occupation.
The Certificate IV in Retail Management and the Diploma of Retail Leadership are available at registered training organisations throughout Western Australia. To find a training provider near you, browse the Jobs and Skills WA website or visit the My Skills website.
You can also undertake a traineeship in retail management. The traineeship usually takes 12 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.