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Department Manager

A Department Manager oversees retail operations, sets sales targets, supervises staff, monitors stock, and organises promotions, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills.

How do I become a department manager

Get qualified to work as a department manager with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Department Manager generally earns $2,000 per week ($104,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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There has been a decrease in worker numbers in this industry in recent years. There are currently 170,300 people employed as a Department Manager in Australia compared to 188,800 five years ago. Department Managers may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’d like to start a career as a Department Manager, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Retail Management. This course will develop your skills in a range of management issues such as customer service and store security. A Certificate IV in Small Business Management may also be appropriate.

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Further reading

How do I become a sales manager?

22nd December 2022

What can you do with a Diploma of Leadership and Management?

20th April 2021

What can you do with a Diploma of Human Resource Management?

24th January 2022

Department Manager careers

A Department Manager oversees the daily operations of a section of a retail store. You might set sales targets, check financial progress and provide reports to whole store managers. Department Managers supervise staff working in their area and may provide training for new team members. You’ll monitor stock levels and organise promotional displays and activities.

Department Managers must be able to motivate their team and communicate well with staff and customers. You’ll need to be a good problem solver and should have excellent customer service skills. Department Managers should be organised and able to handle several tasks at one time.