Regional Manager vs. Area Manager: What Are the Differences?

In the business world, there are many different types of managers. Two common positions are regional manager and area manager. Though these roles share some similarities, there are also several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between regional managers and area managers. We also provide information on the skills and experience you need to pursue each type of management position.

What is a Regional Manager?

Regional Managers are responsible for the overall performance of a company’s stores or locations within a designated geographical area. They develop strategies to improve store performance and meet sales targets. Regional Managers also oversee the hiring and training of store managers and staff. They implement marketing campaigns and promotional activities. In addition, Regional Managers monitor store compliance with company policies and procedures. They investigate and resolve customer complaints. Regional Managers typically report to the Vice President of Stores or the Vice President of Operations.

What is an Area Manager?

An Area Manager is a high-level manager who oversees the operations of a specific geographical area for a company. They are responsible for ensuring that all company goals and objectives are met within the area they manage. Area Managers typically have a team of managers who report to them and who they delegate tasks to. They also often have direct reports, such as Area Representatives or Area Supervisors. Area Managers typically develop strategies and plans to improve the efficiency and productivity of the area they manage. They also work to resolve any issues that may arise.

Regional Manager vs. Area Manager

Here are the main differences between a regional manager and an area manager.

Job Duties

Regional and area managers share some of their job duties, but each has unique responsibilities related to their specific geographical locations. An area manager oversees the performance of a specific geographic region within an organization. They’re responsible for ensuring that all employees in that region are performing at expected levels and helping them improve if they’re underperforming. An area managers also may help regional managers with business decisions by providing feedback on the regions they oversee.

Regional managers have many of the same job duties as area managers, but they also perform additional tasks related to expanding the reach of an organization across multiple regions. They often work with regional sales teams to ensure these groups are working toward common goals and can assist with finding new distribution channels for products or services. Regional managers also may provide training to regional sales teams and support staff members who work in different regions.

Job Requirements

To become a regional manager, you will likely need at least five years of experience in management or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field, but it is not always required. To become an area manager, you will likely need at least three years of experience in management or a related field. As with regional managers, some employers may prefer candidates with an MBA or a related field, but it is not always required.

Work Environment

Regional and area managers work in different environments. Regional managers typically travel to multiple locations within their region, so they may spend a lot of time on the road or in airplanes. They also often work in regional offices that are located near airports for easy access to flights. Area managers usually work in one location, but they may visit other areas within their territory to meet with employees and customers.

Area managers may have more regular hours than regional managers because they don’t travel as much. However, both types of managers can work long hours when necessary.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills needed for regional managers and area managers. Both positions require excellent communication skills, as they will be responsible for communicating with employees, customers and other stakeholders. They also both need to have strong organizational skills to manage their teams and projects effectively.

However, there are some differences in the skills needed for these two positions. Regional managers typically need to have more experience and knowledge about the company’s products or services, as they are responsible for managing multiple locations. They also need to be able to make decisions quickly and efficiently, as they may not have the same level of support as an area manager. Area managers usually need to be more familiar with the local market, as they are responsible for managing a single location. They also need to be able to build relationships with customers and employees, as they may be more involved in day-to-day operations.

Salary

Regional managers earn an average salary of $81,560 per year, while area managers earn an average salary of $67,336 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the manager has.