In order to properly cater to the needs of customers, a supermarket must staff an expert, attentive management team. A supermarket manager may assume many different duties, such as supervising employees and store operations, taking inventory and ordering products, performing administrative and human resources work, or engaging in safety inspections and loss prevention. Most managers are very skilled at organizing merchandise, communicating with employees, and providing excellent customer service.
A supermarket manager in a large store might be in charge of supervising a specific department, such as produce or housewares. A manager typically monitors the inventory and appearance of his or her department. He or she usually determines the prices on items, directs employees in stocking shelves, and orders new products when quantities are low. A manager may design store displays and actively engage with customers to inform them of deals and help them find products. Supermarket delis and bakeries are commonly managed by professionals with experience in food service and safety.
Human resources managers might be in charge of hiring and training new employees, facilitating accounts receivable and payable, managing payroll, or handling employee concerns. A store may staff several people to fulfill human resources needs and an executive supermarket manager to oversee the entire the department. Human resources managers often address the questions and concerns of employees and bring them to the attention of executive management when necessary. They commonly assess the overall quality of the store and its workers, and suggest ways to improve operations when necessary.
Loss prevention and occupational health managers ensure the safety of employees, customers, store property, and merchandise. They may inspect the supermarket floor, stockrooms, and offices to make sure that health and safety guidelines are being followed at all times. Loss prevention managers protect against theft, vandalism, and fraud by monitoring security cameras and walking around the store. They often make detailed reports about safety infractions or incidents of theft, and communicate with the proper authorities about a corrective plan of action.
To become a supermarket manager, a person must typically have at least a high school diploma and extensive supervisory experience in retail or customer service. Some positions, such as those found in human resources, often require candidates to hold college degrees in business management or accounting. There is generally ample room for advancement for experienced managers, as store owners usually prefer to promote existing employees to higher positions rather than bring in outside personnel.
