OCCUPATION: RETAIL DISTRICT MANAGER
Name: Carol Yates
Company: Frederick’s of Hollywood
Thumbs up: “I like getting out to all the stores in my district and seeing what is happening in each of them. Most of the customers are there to select something for a special occasion, and that makes for a fun day. Frederick’s is a fun, happy environment, and we sell a fun product. I also like directing our employees and working to develop their professional skills.”
Thumbs down: “I spend a lot of time on the road between stores. For some people, that might be a drawback. But I have learned to use that time constructively. I listen to self-improvement tapes and keep up with the news and a little music.”
Next step: “I would like to become a regional manager.”
Advice: “Retail is a very challenging environment. You will succeed according to the amount of energy you put into achieving your goals. The ability to keep up with current trends is a very strong asset.”
Salary range: $25,000-$65,000
Hours: “Between 40 to 70 hours a week. During special holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, a district manager will work extra hours, including nights and weekends, to make sure everything is going well at the stores.”
Educational and training requirements: “Many district managers have a bachelor’s degree, but it’s not required. As you get further along in your career, it’s your experience that really matters. Most have worked their way up through the ranks. Frederick’s also places a lot of emphasis on continuing education to help their employees develop. We are always learning.”
Job description: “My main responsibility is to help each store in my district reach its financial goals. That means maintaining maximum sales volume and controlling expenses. I am also in charge of hiring, training and keeping the employees motivated.”
Major employing industries: Specialty retail stores.
For more information: Contact the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising at (714) 546-0930.
Researched by JANICE L. JONES / Los Angeles Times
