RETAIL MANAGEMENT JOB DESCRIPTIONS
RETAIL SALES MERCHANDISER
Key Responsibilities of a Retail Sales Merchandiser:
Rather than working for one particular retail company, a retail sales merchandiser is employed by a manufacturer of products to interface with a number of different retail outlets that carry the manufacturer’s merchandise. After a sales contract has been created, it is the responsibility of the retail sales merchandiser to provide service and maintain a good working relationship with retailers.
The goal of retail sales merchandisers is to help both the retailer and the manufacturer maximize sales and increase sales volume. This goal is accomplished through execution, education, and promotion.
Execution of Retail Sales Merchandising:
As a retail sales merchandiser, you will be ensuring that a proper level of stock is maintained, and that the merchandise is displayed appropriately with proper signage and favorable shelf placement. This includes setup, plan-o-gram execution, as well as the stocking. fronting, facing, and rotating of the manufacturer’s products.
Audits will be performed regularly, and it is the responsibility of the retail sales merchandiser to resolve issues that may arise as a result of these audits, and solve problems at the store level in order to maintain the standards established in the initial sales agreement.
Training Responsibilities of a Retail Sales Merchandiser:
Training is key to the success of this position because store employees who have an awareness and appreciation of certain products are more likely to recommend them to customers. Maintaining a good rapport with employees at all levels is essential, and having effective communication with both employees and customers is critical to success.
Promotions Responsibilities for a Retail Sales Merchandiser:
People in this position will often execute special promotional campaigns created by the manufacturer to boost sales volume. The retail sales merchandiser will introduce the promotion, gain agreement and support from the store managers, secure preferred product placement, re-merchandise, place signage, and generate awareness and enthusiasm with employees prior to the launch of the promotion.
Monitoring sales volume, inspecting inventory levels, and maintaining in-store promotional materials are key tasks throughout the promotional period.
Reporting Responsibilities of a Retail Sales Merchandiser:
Retail or merchandising experience at the store level is preferred, but not always required to obtain a position as a retail sales merchandiser. Many positions where the ability to work independently, manage time effectively, multi-task, and problem solve are considered to be acceptable experience.
Prior experience with maintaining customer relationships or client accounts is usually required. A demonstrated ability to influence decision-makers is considered a plus. The reporting methods will vary for each employer, but basic computer proficiency and knowledge of software programs is usually necessary.
Physical Requirements for Retail Sales Merchandisers:
Because this position requires the constant handling of merchandise, retail sales merchandisers must be prepared to travel, drive, and engage in considerable physical activity. You will have to be willing and able to lift and move products in this job, and the use of proper safety practices and equipment will be essential.
Advanced Education Suggested or Required for Retail Sales Merchandisers:
A college degree is often desired, but not required for retail sales merchandisers. Retailing, marketing, or business degrees are preferred, but other degrees or even a high school diploma are often acceptable as well.

Compensation for Retail Sales Merchandisers:
Many retail sales merchandising positions are part-time, with an hourly wage of $12 - $15 per hour, without benefits. Full-time positions have an average base salary of $33,000, and sometimes include the opportunity