A Retail manager and a client both discussing a career in a golf shop.

Alternative Careers for Retail Managers

We know the struggle of carrying out mundane tasks like managing inventory, dealing with customers, and storekeeping. No-code tools are here to make your life easier and help you pivot to new career opportunities. It’s time to put down that price tag gun and explore options beyond the checkout counter because we've got the top 6 alternative careers for retail managers.

Top 6 alternative careers:

Tired of dealing with difficult customers, stocking endless shelves, and managing never-ending staff schedules?

As a retail manager, you possess a unique set of skills that can be applied to a variety of alternative careers. Maybe you've always dreamed of starting your own business or taking up a tech job, but the thought of coding makes your head spin. Well, have no fear! 

Here are the top 6 alternative careers for retail managers that you can build with the power of "no-code" tools:

  1. Sales Manager
  2. E-commerce Manager
  3. Customer Success Manager
  4. Quality Assurance Analyst
  5. Procurement Manager
  6. Category Manager

Explore the duties you'll have in each job option, the possible earnings, and how no-code development can help you shift from being a retail manager to a position you'll love.

6 Best Job Alternatives for Retail Managers: Our Top Picks

Sales Manager

It’s time to take your skills to the next level and make some serious sales. A sales manager is responsible for driving sales, coaching sales reps, and developing sales strategies. With your experience in retail management, you know how to drive sales and motivate your team, making this the perfect fit for your next career move.

Earning Potentia

The earning potential for sales managers in Europe ranges from $35,500 to $100,300.

Skills To Develop To Transition To Sales Manager

Sales expertise, Leadership, Strategic planning, Relationship-building, Marketing

E-commerce Manager

From bricks to clicks, a retail manager can seamlessly transition to an e-commerce manager role. As an e-commerce manager, you’ll oversee online sales channels, optimize website user experience, and develop and implement digital marketing strategies.  As a former retail manager, you already know how to run a store and manage a team - now you get to do it online. 

Earning Potential

The average base salary for an e-commerce manager in the US is approximately $72,780. However, the earning potential can range from $49,000 to $100,000.​

Skills To Develop To Transition To E-com Manager

E-commerce platform knowledge, Sales and marketing, SEO knowledge, Customer service, Digital marketing

Customer Success Manager

As a CS Manager, you’ll turn unhappy customers into loyal ones by leading and coaching a team to provide exceptional service.  ​You'll get to put your problem-solving skills to the test, ensuring every customer is satisfied with their experience. ​From onboarding to renewal, you’ll be the glue that holds it all together.

Earning Potential

The average salary for a CS manager in Europe is approximately $51,280 per year. However, the earning potential can range from $35,000 to $81,500.

Skills To Develop To Transition To CS Manager

Customer service, Problem-solving, Relationship building, Communication, Empathy

Quality Assurance Analyst

Looking for a career where your attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction can shine?

Consider becoming a quality assurance analyst. ​You'll get to ensure products and services meet the highest standards, and no detail will go unnoticed under your watchful eye. ​With your experience in managing retail operations, you'll know exactly what customers expect, and you'll be able to ensure that every product meets those high standards. 

Earning Potential

The average salary for a QA Analyst in the US is approximately $46,700 per year. The earning potential can range from $29,500 to $69,800.

Skills To Develop To Transition To QA Analyst

Software testing, Defect tracking, Eye for detail, Regression testing, Performance testing

Procurement Manager

As a retail manager, you know how to find the best deals and get the most bang for your buck. So, put those skills to use as a procurement manager. 

​You'll get to negotiate with vendors, manage the purchasing process, manage budgets, develop new supplier relationships, and make sure your company gets the best products at the best prices. 

Earning Potential

​The average base salary for a procurement manager in the US is approximately $81,860 per year. However, the earning potential can range from $58,380 to $97,560.

Skills To Develop To Transition To Procurement Manager

Procurement processes knowledge, Negotiation, Understanding of budgeting, Vendor selection and management, Relationship building

Category Manager

As a category manager, you'll be responsible for optimizing sales and profitability for a particular product category.  You'll have to analyze market trends, create product assortments, and develop pricing strategies to maximize profits. 

With your expertise in customer preferences and sales strategies, you'll create and implement successful marketing plans, ensuring the best possible outcome for your company.

Earning Potential

The average salary for a category manager in Europe is approximately $64,150 per year. However, the earning potential can range from $42,000 to $95,000.

Skills To Develop To Transition To Category Manager

Analytical skills, Critical thinking skills, Knowledge of market trends, Decision-making, Leadership

30-Day Career Transformation banner

The Most Lucrative and Easy to Learn Skill in 2025 for Retail Managers: No-Code Development

What is no-code development?

No-code development is a sort of web development that allows you to create websites, web apps, mobile apps, task automation, and much more, without writing a single line of code.

How much do no-code developers earn?

The earning potential can range between $30,000 - $130,000 or even more if you have a strong portfolio and advanced skills.

How easy or difficult is it for retail managers to become no-code developers?

As retail managers don’t have a tech or creative background, appropriate training, guidance, and practice can easily help them to get a hang of no-code development.

Tips to fast-track your transition to no-code development careers

Know the basics: Before diving into no-code tools, it's important to have a fair understanding of key concepts such as database design, user experience, graphic design, etc. Invest in courses or guides: Investing in online courses or certifications is an amazing way to fast-track your learning curve.

foundations icon

Nocode Foundations

Foundations program is a 6-week cohort-based program designed to help you re-invent your career by learning tech skills without code.

Get hands-on experience and practice: Try out different no-code platforms and build sample projects to gain practical experience and truly master the tools.