CREATE A PIPELINE OF COMMERCIALLY-FOCUSED RETAIL MANAGERS
The Level 4 Retail Manager apprenticeship is the ideal progression route for team leaders and supervisors wanting to step up to management, or for existing managers wanting to enhance their skills and performance. The course focuses on creating exceptional customer experiences while developing commercial instincts.
On completion of this programme, apprentices will develop advanced leadership skills in recruitment, managing team performance and rewarding excellence, alongside proficiency in operational management. They will also gain skills in strategic planning, setting and meeting targets to maximise income, minimising wastage through monitoring of stock levels, and analysis of service and sales data.
KEY INFORMATION
- Develop customer-focused behaviour to inspire team members
- Drive commercial KPIs and store performance
- Maximise sales and engagement to drive loyalty through effective leadership
APPRENTICESHIP DETAILS
The Level 4 Retail Manager apprenticeship is suited to current and aspiring managers looking to enhance their operational skills and commercial acumen.
- Open cohorts start in February/March, April/May and September/October
- Closed cohorts can start at any time
- Hybrid, online and in-person delivery
- Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning
The Level 4 Retail Manager apprenticeship programme builds on core knowledge of business operations and sales performance to develop strong leaders with the ability to motivate high-performing retail teams. Equipping learners with a deeper understanding of relevant legislation, technology and practices, this apprenticeship can form part of a management development programme.
On completion of this apprenticeship, learners will be able to confidently lead a team within a retail setting, and understand how to motivate the team to drive business goals and operational efficiency. Apprentices will also be equipped with fundamental skills in data gathering and analysis to help monitor the performance of their store and their team.
The Level 4 Retail Manager apprenticeship costs £5,000 per learner which includes End-Point Assessment.
Funding
Apprenticeships can be funded from your Apprenticeship Levy or by Government Co-Invest. If you do not pay the Levy, the Government will fund 95% of the programme, meaning you pay as little as £250 per person you enrol. We are also able to offer privately funded places for any employees not eligible for apprenticeship funding. For further information about funding options, eligibility and costs, please contact us.
Cost Includes:
- Bespoke off-the-job learning plan
- Programme Manager overseeing the learner journey and apprentice experience
- Delivery of the programme by retail experts
- Blend of sessions including online learning, webinars, in-person workshops, and individual coaching and support
- Preparation and support for End-Point Assessment
- Dedicated Client Manager
- Access to FRA resources including WGSN, LinkedIn Learning, Global Data, Business of Fashion, Fashion/Beauty Monitor and Drapers
- Online e-Portfolio
- Monthly progress report
Duration: 15 months
The Level 4 Retail Manager apprenticeship typically takes 15 months to complete, followed by a period of end-point assessment of approximately 3 months.
Open Cohort Intakes
February/March
April/May
September/October
Enquire now to secure places for your team
Closed Cohorts
We can begin a closed intake apprenticeship at any time that suits your brand. We require a minimum of 11 learners to offer a closed cohort for Level 4 Retail Manager.
For our closed-access programmes, we can devise a flexible programme and delivery model to support the needs of your business – please get in touch to find out more about the options available.
Off-the-job learning is delivered through a combination of full day and half day group workshops approximately every 2 weeks, which may take place online or in person.
Customer Experience & Brand Representation
- Understand and manage customer journeys to drive satisfaction, loyalty, and sales.
- Own the customer experience across all channels.
- Champion and protect the brand reputation; ensure brand values are upheld.
- Align all team actions with customer service objectives and brand standards.
Business Strategy & Commercial Awareness
- Understand business vision, market position, and retail operating context.
- Analyse market trends, competitor actions, and customer feedback.
- Align team objectives with strategic business goals.
- Take responsibility for delivering localised strategic outcomes.
Sales, Merchandising & Product Management
- Set and manage realistic but challenging sales targets.
- Use product knowledge and data to optimise stock, merchandising, and sales.
- Manage seasonal variations and trends to maximise commercial outcomes.
- Lead promotional and merchandising efforts tailored to store/local needs.
- Use performance analysis to drive sales and stock decisions.
Financial & Resource Management
- Understand cost drivers, forecasting, budgeting, and profitability.
- Analyse financial reports and act to improve commercial performance.
- Implement cost control, waste reduction, and resource optimisation measures.
- Report financial results and contribute to strategic financial planning.
Leadership, Team Management & Development
- Apply effective leadership styles to motivate and guide teams.
- Recruit, retain and develop high-performing teams.
- Deliver coaching, mentoring and structured development.
- Manage team performance using feedback, recognition, and performance tools.
Operations, Stock & Technology
- Manage stock systems to minimise loss and ensure audit compliance.
- Oversee merchandising, stock control, and product availability.
- Understand and implement relevant technologies to improve operations.
- Use data and systems to monitor performance and support decision-making.
- Drive operational improvements and ensure compliance with processes.
Governance, Compliance & Inclusion
- Ensure legal, health & safety, and environmental compliance.
- Maintain ethical and responsible retail practices.
- Understand and apply diversity and inclusion policies.
- Adapt to local demographics and cultural needs in the workplace.
- Handle audits and regulatory interactions professionally.
End-point assessment
For the Level 4 Retail Manager apprenticeship, end-point assessment is provided by EFI Awards. EPA typically takes 3 months to complete.
EPA includes written exam, retail business project and professional discussion.
EFI Training have provided an incredible development opportunity for a number of our 'top talent' employees.
Katie Battersby, Head of Learning, Development & Culture, Space NK