1. SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
Delhi, NY • Private
In-State Tuition
$8,360
Enrollment
3,142
For individuals who enjoy sales and retail, have a creative spark, and enjoy working with people, then a career as a merchandising supervisor can be quite rewarding. Merchandising supervisors are responsible for making decisions regarding the stocking, pricing, and shelf-presentation of retail goods in stores. These individuals have the freedom to plan product displays meant to catch the eye of customers, as well as the planning and presentation of products that make the shopping experience a positive one.
Merchandising supervisors have analytical skills, and are capable of managing purchases, inventory, negotiating with suppliers, negotiating costs, identifying emerging markets, and identifying supply and demand trends. These individuals also are detail-oriented, can meet deadlines, have excellent communications and people skills, and are effective at managing employees. A career in this field typically is done in an office or retail environment and may involve working some weekends depending on the store. Merchandising managers also should be proficient in computers and software, and be able to prepare annual and quarterly budget reports and present these reports to upper management.
Also, these individuals are required to track inventory movement and push promotions, sales, and manage price changes. Although an advanced degree is not critical, a bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or a related field can be helpful, as well as experience in a retail environment. Merchandising managers can expect to make an average of $17 an hour, or $36,000 per year, and job growth in the US is expected to be 2%.
