What does an assistant retail manager do?

An assistant retail manager is responsible for supporting the store manager in all aspects of running a retail business. This includes managing day-to-day store operations, handling employees, and ensuring the store meets its sales targets. Regardless of the type of business (B2B or B2C), an assistant retail manager is essential to improve overall operations, boost sales, and enhance the customer experience.

As this role is supervisory in nature, it requires the candidate to oversee the sales team, recruit and train new employees when needed, and ensure customer satisfaction with refunds or exchanges if required.


‘Assistant store manager’, ‘assistant shop manager’ and ‘assistant manager’ are other common job titles used to identify assistant retail managers in India. The job titles for this position differ as per the company's size, type of retail operations and level of management hierarchy. However, the key responsibilities are consistent throughout.


Assistant store manager responsibilities also include analysing sales data and inventory levels for optimised store performance. They work closely with other departments like merchandising, marketing, and operations to boost sales and ensure the overall success of a business. 

Job Description: Template

We're seeking a skilled and motivated assistant retail manager to join our team at [Company A].

As an assistant retail manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring the success of our retail operations, including managing store operations, sales, inventory, customer service, and staff. If you have a passion for retail and customer service, are a strong communicator, and are experienced in managing and coaching teams, you are the ideal candidate we are looking for.

Our package includes a competitive stipend, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth within the firm. We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to diversity and inclusion.

Objectives of this role:

  • Supporting the store manager in achieving sales targets.
  • Managing daily operations, including store opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and inventory management.
  • Ensuring customer satisfaction with a problem-solving attitude.
  • Collaborating with other departments to optimise the customer experience and improve store operations. 

Your tasks:

  • Assist in managing inventory levels, ordering stock, and conducting stock audits.
  • Support scheduling to ensure adequate staff coverage during peak times.
  • Manage and train junior employees, ensuring they meet performance targets and provide exceptional customer service.
  • Provide feedback to the retail manager for sales, customer service, accounting, and staff performance.
  • Work with the marketing department to plan and execute promotional activities.
  • Ensure that the store is always clean, organised and visually appealing.
  • Monitor sales performance and take corrective action as needed. 

Required skills and qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience in retail management roles.
  • Bachelor’s degree in business administration, retail management, or a related field.
  • Solid understanding of retail operations, sales and inventory management.
  • Experience in visual merchandising techniques and store layout optimisation.
  • Customer-focused approach and ability to work well under pressure.
  • Excellent analytical capabilities to create and analyse reports and sales statistics.
  • Ability to manage and motivate employees effectively with strong interpersonal skills.

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Flexible working on weekends and holidays, if required.
  • Ability to speak multiple languages (English, Hindi, or any regional language).
  • Experience in inventory management & retail software as well as customer relationship management (CRM) software, like Hubspot or Salesforce. 
  • Business Analytics Specialist Retail Certification (BASRET) or relevant certifications and training in retail management, customer service, sales, or marketing.