What does a Department Manager do?
A Department Manager is found widely throughout various industries. A Department Manager works to ensure a positive experience for the customer by overseeing all aspects of their experience interacting with the company. They assist with the execution of daily operations through staff training, supervision and team building. A supervisor is well educated on the policies and expectations of the company and is usually promoted from within or has prior relevant experience.
Department Manager are required to have a high school education or GED. Many have advanced degrees in management or a related field. A Department Manager in specialized industries will also be required to possess certifications relevant to the field. Recent experience in the industry they are working is essential, as they oversee managing employees and their daily interactions with customers and do so to company standards. Leadership skills and ability to resolve challenges quickly are common attributes of an effective Department Manager.
- Oversee and administer tests to ensure employees have a firm understanding of company policy
- Train new hires on the standards and procedures of the company, from how to handle a negative customer experience to how to properly interact with customers
- Ensure proper approval for customer discounts, returns and exchanges while providing customer satisfaction and positive interaction with the company
- Actively seek to resolve any concerns while adhering to the company policy and standards of behavior
- Ensure company goals and objectives are being met by each employee and provide feedback
- Address customer concerns in reference to products, services rendered or employee interactions
- Establish tasks for employees to ensure a clean workplace, this includes stocking supplies and maintaining clean restrooms and public spaces
- Monitor and supervise the timely arrival of scheduled employees, with aware of unforeseen challenges such as scheduling
- Experience overseeing yearly training plans for departments within the company
- Extensive knowledge of management theory and its practical applications in the workplace
- Ability to communicate effectively with senior management and other departments
- Experience analyzing company needs, employee development and goal setting
- Instructional experience in a group business setting preferred
- Proficient using Microsoft Suite and other data entry software
- Strong understanding of business goals and standards for customer service
- Ability to effectively organize and manage multiple company initiatives simultaneously
- Bachelor's degree in management or other relevant industry field is preferred
How much does a Department Manager make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$54,449
/ yrDepartment Manager Career Path
Learn how to become a Department Manager, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Department Manager Insights
Nordstrom“The people are great and its one of the best retail environments out there depending on the store”
Anthropologie“I stayed for years because I was always "on the brink of a promotion" and the insurance is amazing.”
General Grind & Machine“I made a lot of good friends here and I'm 100% sure you will to.”
ThinkSys“2. Salary: One of the best in the industry and always on time like any standard organization.”
Elkjøp“Hard on Work/life balance Pay is not good compared to others with this kind of responsibility”
Hex Trust“Last but not least I have the utmost respect for Alessio who relentlessly drives the company forward no matter the challenges standing in the way.”
The Home Depot“Crap shoot if you get a good leadership team or not depending on the store.”
Longos“I was able to negotiate myself a good wage when I accepted the role I am in.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Department Manager
- Manager
- Regional Manager
- General Manager
- District Manager