Manager in Training

About Steve Madden

Steve Madden is a global fashion footwear and accessories brand known for bold, trend-driven designs and an entrepreneurial spirit. Our stores are built around delivering an exceptional customer experience while developing strong, passionate teams.

Position Overview

The Manager in Training (MIT) is a key leadership development role designed to prepare high-performing individuals for future Store Manager opportunities.

Working closely with the Store Manager and leadership team, the MIT will gain hands-on experience in all areas of store management, including sales performance, customer experience, visual merchandising, operations, inventory management, recruiting, training, and team leadership.

The ideal candidate is an energetic, results-driven leader who can motivate a team, create a strong customer experience, and consistently demonstrate the behaviors and standards expected of a Steve Madden leader.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Support the Store Manager in leading and motivating the store team.
• Lead by example and create a positive, inclusive, and high-energy store environment.
• Assist with coaching, feedback, and ongoing development of associates.
• Help identify team strengths and opportunities for development.
• Support onboarding and training of new employees.
• Build strong relationships with associates while maintaining professional leadership standards.
• Step into leadership responsibilities when the Store Manager is unavailable.

Sales & Customer Experience

• Drive sales and consistently work toward achieving and exceeding store goals.
• Analyze sales performance and help identify opportunities to improve results.
• Lead the team in delivering exceptional customer service.
• Demonstrate strong selling behaviors and product knowledge.
• Coach associates on customer engagement, styling, product recommendations, and closing the sale.
• Help create a customer-focused environment that reflects the Steve Madden brand.

Store Operations

• Assist with opening and closing procedures.
• Support cash handling and loss-prevention procedures.
• Maintain company standards for store organization, cleanliness, and presentation.
• Assist with shipment processing, replenishment, and inventory management.
• Ensure company policies and procedures are consistently followed.
• Support scheduling and staffing needs as directed by the Store Manager.
• Assist with maintaining compliance with health, safety, and company standards.

Visual Merchandising

• Maintain brand and visual merchandising standards throughout the store.
• Assist with floor sets, product placement, signage, and promotional changes.
• Ensure merchandise is presented in an organized and visually appealing manner.
• Partner with the leadership team to maximize product exposure and sales opportunities.

Business & Leadership Development

• Learn and understand key store performance metrics and financial goals.
• Develop the ability to identify trends and create action plans to improve business results.
• Participate in leadership meetings and business discussions.
• Take ownership of assigned projects and follow through to completion.
• Demonstrate readiness to take on increasing levels of responsibility.
• Continuously develop knowledge of Steve Madden policies, systems, products, and leadership expectations.

Qualifications

• Previous retail leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Results-oriented with a strong drive to achieve sales goals.
• Excellent customer service and selling skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Ability to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Ability to adapt to changing business needs.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Passion for fashion, footwear, and the Steve Madden brand.
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who is:

A Leader — You naturally take initiative, inspire others, and lead by example.

Results Driven — You are motivated by goals and understand how your actions impact business performance.

People Focused — You enjoy developing others and creating a strong team culture.

Customer Obsessed — You understand that every customer interaction is an opportunity to create loyalty and drive sales.

Adaptable — You can quickly adjust to changing priorities and business needs.

Ready to Grow — You are looking for a long-term career in retail leadership and are excited to develop toward a future Store Manager position.

Career Growth

The Manager in Training program is designed to provide hands-on leadership experience and prepare successful candidates for future management opportunities within Steve Madden.

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Paid time off
• Store discount

Experience:

• Retail management: 3 years (required)

Work Location: In person