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Store Director in Training - Columbia
Company : Lowes Foods
Location : Columbia, SC, 29203
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Overview
After successful completion of the training program, a Store Director in Training works to ensure effective and profitable operations of the store through sales maximization and host growth. Support the company brand and instill service priorities and cultural initiatives to maximize sales.
Responsibilities
1. Implements and maintains an in-store sales-building culture that ensures growth through: execution of company merchandising programs and weekly sales plans in each department, planning and executing weekly sales themes, ensuring in-stock conditions throughout the store and conducting weekly sales meetings.
2. Provides for desired levels of guest satisfaction, courtesy and service throughout the store, with special emphasis on our front-end fast service commitment.
3. Accountable for achieving budgeted financial results.
4. Protects company assets: merchandise, cash, facilities and equipment. Conducts weekly manager audits on front-end, DSD receiving and pricing. Personally responsible for follow through on all required shrink management programs.
5. Effectively controls store variable expenses, including achieving budgeted wage percent.
6. Personally responsible for the staffing of the store, including forecasting of needs, recruitment and training. Additionally, builds a talent planning bench for store, including developing and executing development plans for all hi-potential and promotable individuals.
7. Ensures direct reports understand expectations for performance, holds them accountable to achieve budgeted results and meets with them to review performance and provide feedback (ongoing and annual performance appraisal).
8. Constant awareness and reaction to store conditions through frequent and detailed store walks.
9. Effectively trains and develops store management team, especially co-managers, to ensure Lowes Foods has the necessary bench for our sustained growth. Acts as a resource for these leaders in their roles.
10. Ensures sanitation and food safety standards are maintained throughout the store (as measured through internal and external sources).
11. Creates an atmosphere that ensures positive store morale through effective supervisory treatment and recognition. The workforce should be enthusiastic, guest focused and embedded in a selling culture.
12. Provides and facilitates effective communications to Division Director, Support Staff and store hosts.
13. Ensures stores are run in compliance with company standards (as measured by ALI audits).
14. Ensures compliance with all federal, state and local statutes, regulations and company policies.
15. Maintains a safe facility for guests and hosts.
Qualifications
The incumbent should possess the skills and knowledge generally associated with a bachelor's degree and 3 - 4 years progressive supermarket management experience.
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Frequently asked questions
This role immerses trainees in hands-on store management, emphasizing sales strategies and team development crucial for leading Lowes Foods locations in Columbia. It builds leadership skills tailored to local market dynamics, preparing candidates to oversee profitable, guest-focused store operations effectively.
Starting as a Store In Training offers a structured path to management by developing expertise in merchandising, staff leadership, and financial oversight. Columbia’s competitive retail environment rewards those who excel in operational efficiency and team motivation, opening doors to higher managerial roles.
Challenges include maintaining product availability, driving sales amid local competition, and ensuring high guest satisfaction. Managing diverse teams and adapting to Columbia’s customer preferences require strong problem-solving and communication skills for success.
While a bachelor's degree and supermarket management experience are typical, familiarity with local health regulations and leadership development programs can enhance a candidate’s fit. Columbia employers often value candidates who understand regional compliance and community engagement.
Lowes Foods emphasizes a service-first culture and sales growth mindset, which trainees adopt through direct involvement in store operations and team leadership. This cultural integration ensures alignment with brand values while fostering a motivated workforce in Columbia stores.
Trainees gain responsibility for executing merchandising plans, managing shrink control, and leading sales meetings, directly impacting store profitability. Lowes Foods supports talent development, enabling trainees in Columbia to shape store success and prepare for future management roles.
In Columbia, SC, Store Directors in Training at Lowes Foods typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually. This range reflects local market rates for supermarket management trainees, factoring in experience and the scope of responsibilities.
Columbia’s retail sector, including mall and warehouse positions, shows steady demand for management trainees. However, competition is moderate due to a growing number of candidates seeking leadership roles, making relevant experience and local knowledge valuable for applicants.
Candidates should consider Columbia’s traffic patterns and store locations relative to residential areas. Efficient commuting options can affect work-life balance, especially given the role’s requirement for frequent store visits and flexible scheduling.