Regional Manager

Position Overview

A regional manager oversees the operations of different stores within their assigned region. This may include a single county or multiple, depending on the organizations size and how many stores are located in the area. It is their job to ensure each store is operating in an appropriate way and follows the policies and practices of the organization. They see that the stores are clean, stocked, and upholds a preset budget. They also ensure marketing campaigns are initiated, and that each store meets sales goals. The regional manager hires each store manager and reports back to the company's senior managers.

Regional Manager Duties

• See that each store is following company policies and is profitable
• Recruit, select and retain store managers
• Train store managers so they can manage the store effectively
• Develop best practices for each store
• Create strategic action plans to meet sales goals
• Understand the market and forecast to anticipate any possible changes
• Recommend new products to add to current product line
• Attend industry related seminars to stay updated on current trends
• Initiate trade promotions
• Encourage a stronger customer base by training and advising sales representatives
• Seek new opportunities for the company as a whole

Typical Employers

• Food and beverage manufacturers
• Agricultural equipment manufacturers
• Agricultural technology companies
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Financial providers / banking
• Technological companies

Required Education and Training

Individuals looking to become a regional manager should have a degree in business, sales, marketing, communications, or management. Additionally, it is advised to have previous management experience. Many regional managers work at a lower position in the company before rising to a management role. This is important as it gives individuals a working knowledge on how the company functions, what motives the sales staff, and what the industry is like. As regional managers are in charge of hiring store managers, they should also have a general understanding of human resource practices.

Key Skills and Qualities

• Strong leadership skills
• Ability to manage and work with others
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good at planning and following a budget
• Analytical mindset
• Ability to make good decisions within time constraints

Average Salary

The average salary for a regional manager is £38,000. Those with more experience can make upwards of £56,000. The salary can vary greatly depending on industry, company, and how much of the salary is commission based. They also can make significant bonuses if their performance was exceptional.