8 Retail Jobs You’ve Probably Not Considered

The retail industry employs millions of people across a wide variety of roles. While jobs like cashier and store manager may come to mind first when thinking about retail, there are many other positions that keep stores running smoothly behind the scenes. In this article, we’ll explore eight retail jobs that you may not have considered before, but that could be great options if you’re looking for a new career path. Having a good CV is important when applying for any of these roles.

1. Supply Chain Manager

One of the most important yet rarely seen retail jobs is that of the supply chain manager. Supply chain managers are responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of products, from suppliers to manufacturers to retailers. Their goal is to ensure products are delivered to stores in a timely and cost-efficient manner. This is a complex role that requires analytical skills, communication abilities, and attention to detail. Supply chain managers often have degrees in logistics, operations management, or a related field. If you’re interested in organisation and optimisation on a grand scale, supply chain management could be a fulfilling retail career choice.

2. Loss Prevention Officer

Loss prevention officers help minimise retail theft and fraud. Their duties include monitoring surveillance equipment, inspecting receipts and merchandise, and investigating suspicious activity. This role requires a high level of responsibility as loss prevention officers often have to make quick decisions to stop shoplifters. Strong ethics are essential. Prior experience in law enforcement, security, or investigations would be beneficial for prospective loss prevention officers. It’s a behind-the-scenes job that helps keep retailers safe and profitable.

3. Visual Merchandiser

Visual merchandisers use creativity and design skills to showcase retail products attractively in-store. Their role involves developing eye-catching displays, signage, and layouts that promote sales. Visual merchandisers stay on top of trends and seasonal themes to produce engaging retail environments that match a brand’s image. While visual merchandising roles were traditionally entry-level, large retailers now seek candidates with degrees in art, graphic design, or visual communications. If you have an artistic flair and interest in commercial space planning, this could be the retail job for you.

4. Social Media Manager

As ecommerce and online shopping continue to grow, retailers need social media managers to build their brand and connect with customers online. Social media managers create content calendars, manage retailer accounts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and analyse metrics to assess what’s working. Excellent communication skills and staying on top of the latest social media best practices are musts. Many retailers now look for candidates with marketing, communications, journalism, or PR degrees for these roles. It’s a dynamic job for social media-savvy professionals.

5. Retail Buyer

Retail buyers choose the products that make it onto store shelves. They stay on top of consumer trends to select merchandise that will sell. Strong analytical skills, industry knowledge, and negotiation abilities are needed to get the best deals from manufacturers. Buyers also forecast sales and monitor budgets. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree and previous retail experience. Buyers enjoy fashion, so this can be an exciting career for those who love shopping and staying ahead of the curve.

6. Resources Manager

HR managers recruit, hire, train, and support staff for retail stores. They handle critical tasks like employee relations, payroll, benefits, performance reviews, and compliance. As such, HR managers require excellent interpersonal abilities, knowledge of labour laws, and organisational skills. Retailers often seek those with HR degrees or certifications. Professionals who want to help bring out the best in retail teams would find this a rewarding career path.

7. Distribution Centre Manager

Behind the scenes of every retailer are massive distribution centres that receive, unpack, and ship inventory. Distribution centre managers oversee all logistics, processes, and staffing for these warehouses. They implement safety and quality control procedures while aiming to meet shipping targets. Strong project management and process improvement skills are vital. This fast-paced role is ideal for analytical, organised professionals. Degrees in supply chain, logistics, or operations management are preferred.

8. Franchise Manager

For those interested in retail franchises, one option is becoming a franchise manager. Franchise managers are appointed by the corporate office to oversee an individual franchise location. They handle daily operations, meet sales goals, manage staffing, ensure brand compliance, and serve as the communication conduit to headquarters. A Starbucks franchise would be one example. This is a role with high potential for advancement for business-minded professionals.

When imagining a retail career, we often think of just the customer-facing roles. However, this industry thrives because of the many professionals working behind the scenes in less visible positions. Supply chain experts, loss prevention officers, merchandisers, social media gurus, buyers, HR specialists, distribution centre managers, and franchise leaders all play vital parts in running successful retail companies. For job seekers with the right skills and interests, these careers can be truly fulfilling and engaging.