Retail stores, small boutiques, large department stores, corporate offices of retail companies. Department sales manager positions are the first customer contact jobs for management trainees as they develop experience and responsibility. This position includes supervision of the sales force as well as control over the sales flow inventory of merchandise. Promotion from this position typically occurs in 1-2 years.
Assistant buyer is another possible career path for the management trainee position.
Promotion from this position typically occurs in 1-2 years. A buyer is responsible for planning sales, inventory and receipts as well as the selection of merchandise, writing and pricing of orders. Another important responsibility is sales and inventory management. Generally, employees need 4-5 years of experience to become a buyer. Small business owners operate their own retail establishment and perform all functions necessary to running a successful small business.