An area manager oversees operations at multiple locations in a region, with authority over individual managers and responsibility for ensuring compliance with company policies. They may also develop sales plans and attend events for professional development. Industry experience and management experience are typically required.
An area manager oversees operations at multiple locations in the same region. This management team member has authority over individual managers of stores, warehouses, and other facility resources, and typically works under the direction of executive personnel. Industry experience is generally required, with many employers wanting job candidates who have at least four years of management experience. A university degree can also be helpful, although it may not be required for all positions.
In some cases, an area manager also personally oversees a facility, acting as a manager in day-to-day activities. Day-to-day management tasks can include hiring and firing staff, training and ensuring that company policies are maintained at all times. This can involve appearance standards for employees as well as customer service policies. Working in local management can keep the area manager familiar with job responsibilities and issues that people may face in other locations.
On site visits, the area manager audits a facility to ensure it is running properly. These visits may be unscheduled to provide an opportunity to see how people work when they are not expecting a visit. Area managers can be asked to review records, examine offices and observe people as they work on site. They identify any violations of company policy, such as people not following the dress code, poorly secured cash registers, and other issues. Additionally, they may meet with the individual store manager and other senior staff to discuss any issues and work on a solution.
Individual profits can also be a concern for an area manager. Stores expect the management team to place and handle products properly for maximum sales. This may include developing strategic sales plans, marketing schemes and other programs to increase customer interest. The area manager can work with other area managers on promotions, workshops and training to ensure consistency across the entire chain of stores and develop ideas for improving sales and customer service experiences.
Superiors in the management chain can request periodic reports from an area manager. This can include detailed financial reports on different stores, as well as discussions on staffing, issues raised and marketing strategies. Area managers may be required to attend events such as conferences with other managers, training sessions to implement new procedures, and retreats to discuss management techniques and company values. Professional development can also include subscribing to industry publications and participating in external training opportunities.
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