Assistant Store Manager

Recently, a national discount apparel store chain posted a job listing for Assistant Store Manager. The applicant chosen would work in Oregon. Here is the position description placed at the National Retail Federation Job Board.

The Assistant Store Manager (ASM) is responsible for the management and supervision of all assigned departments and all nonexempt employees [non-managerial] in the store. The ASM will assist in managing and controlling store operations to ensure that all company standards and expectations are consis­tently met. The ASM will also supervise areas assigned by the Store Manager and follow the firm’s philosophy and policies in regard to customers, store associates, and merchandising. The ASM is responsible for learning all phases of store operations. In the absence of the Store Manager, the Assistant Manager is responsible for the entire store operation and will execute the business plan and the associated programs that will deliver the desired sales and profit results, while maintaining good quality customer service.

These are the essential functions for the ASM: Execute customer service programs and merchandise presentation pro­grams through store associates’ training and program supervi­sion. Supervise and coach retail associates in providing efficient and friendly service at the registers, the customer service desk, fitting rooms, the sales floor, and so on. Monitor the main­tenance of customer service, sizing, and markdowns to reach corporate goals. Oversee merchandise processing, in-store marketing, and store appearance. Urgently approach process­ing merchandise to the selling floor within the company time frame. Ensure that merchandise is presented and organized utilizing the company’s clear merchandising philosophy and guidelines. Ensure that markdowns are processed according to policy on an accurate and timely basis. Maintain a high standard of housekeeping with the help of contracted maintenance per­sonnel and store associates. Manage store recovery to ensure a clean, neat, easy to shop environment.

In addition, the ASM will: Monitor inventory shortage programs in the store and ensure compliance with company policies. Understand company and store inventory results and goals. Assist in leading the annual inventory process, includ­ing preparation and execution of inventory guidelines. Assist with training store associates on loss prevention awareness and store shortage goals. Monitor the out-of-stock policy to ensure proper administration. Assist in analyzing monthly store reports to evaluate controllable expenses and overall store performance. Communicate any variances to company standards to the Store Manager. Ensure proper scheduling of employees to meet business objectives. Ensure that all associates understand and can execute emergency operating procedures. Accept special assignments as directed by management.

Finally, the ASM will: Assist in recruiting, hiring, training, and developing nonexempt store associates. Ensure compliance with personnel policies. Assist with employee relations issues by communicating any incidents to the Store Manager or District Managers. Maintain adherence to safety policies and ensure the safety of store associates and customers. Assist in facilitating monthly safety meetings. Ensure compliance with all government regulations. Assist in the management and con­tinuous monitoring of actual spending to be within budget. Con­trol payroll hours to plan and well as adjust to current business trends.

The ASM must meet several physical requirements, as well: Be able to stand for prolonged periods (up to 8 hours daily). Be able to raise or lower objects weighing up to 25 pounds, from one level to another (including upward). Be able to regularly bend, stoop, or crouch (varying per daily business need).

Source: Barry Berman, Joel R Evans, Patrali Chatterjee (2017), Retail Management: A Strategic Approach, Pearson; 13th edition.