We recognise this and have access to programmes that can help retailers of all sizes develop their managers of today and business leaders of tomorrow:
ACCREDITING EXISTING MANAGEMENT PROGRAMMES
Making that leap from shop floor operations into a first line supervisory role is often the toughest step into a management career, yet many retail businesses recognise its importance and run programmes to develop their talent, providing staff with the skills to lead a retail operation. With learning that is so important, it makes sense to recognise it with a qualification. Experience tells us that to do so results in multiple benefits. For the employer, delivering qualifications as a result of training programmes adds rigour and quality assurance, codifying their learning against national standards set by the sector. For the employee, it results in increased levels of motivation stemming from the recognition achieved from a nationally recognised qualification, leading to increased productivity and retention. Crucially it delivers a better return on training investment.
There are a variety of ways of delivering qualifications for managers and supervisors in your retail business, including the Foundation Degree in Retailing. We can help you work out the route that is best for you, your people and your business.
ENDORSED IN-HOUSE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMMES
Many people only ever see the front-facing side of retail; a fast-moving industry unfolding daily on a hectic sales floor and, whilst it is said that retailers are only as good as the previous days trading figures, it is a varied sector that depends on skills and knowledge in areas like marketing, buying, merchandising people management and crucially technology. For this reason, retailers need management development programmes that give a much broader insight into the world of retailing and the emerging consumer behaviour and trends. We support this view and can help you access endorsed programmes that will address all your needs, whatever your size and business.
MARY PORTAS GUIDE TO SUCCESSFUL RETAILING
Mary Portas has carved out a reputation as one of the UK’s leading retail guru’s capable of turning around the fortunes of struggling independent retail businesses and finding the formula for success. She has now lent her expertise to creating the definitive guide for improving the performance and profitability of independent stores. Developed in conjunction with Skillsmart Retail and delivered exclusively through the National Skills Academy for Retail’s skills shops, the Mary Portas Guide to Successful Retailing, gives an invaluable insight into how to improve a retail business and the seven master classes include Mary’s advice on essential elements like visual merchandising, marketing, buying, finance and the all-important longer-term vision for your store.
OXFORD SUMMER SCHOOL
Invest a week of your working life and you will change it forever. The Oxford Summer School is the 'jewel in the crown' of UK retail management training and the first destination for many aspiring senior retail managers. The intensive week-long residential course, held annually at Keble College, Oxford, is run by the British Shops and Stores Association; a mix of projects, lectures and tutorials, team-building events and social activities aimed at delivering an inspirational experience that helps junior managers in retail realise their true potential. To apply for one of the scholarship places offered by Skillsmart Retail and Retail Trust, please click HERE.
OXFORD RETAIL MASTERS FORUM
The Retail Masters Forum held at Said Business School, Oxford, is a four-day residential course, widely regarded as one of the top senior retail management training courses in the country. For senior head office/store managers, regional and area managers and owner-managers of independent businesses, this course enables experienced retailers to broaden their outlook and understanding of strategic retail thinking, as well as equipping them with a wealth of practical ideas to take back into the workplace. With assistance from recognised experts in specific fields, delegates learn from world-class speakers, network with other retailers and stretch themselves in a challenging, yet supportive environment. To find out more about one of the scholarship places offered by Skillsmart Retail and Retail Trust, click HERE.
