Guide to planning a managers departure

When a manager leaves their role, careful planning is essential to ensure continuity, minimise disruption, and effectively transition tasks. Below is a flexible guide applicable to all industries, with optional retail-specific considerations in brackets [].

1. Understanding the Role

• Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

  • Document all daily, weekly, monthly, and annual tasks.

  • Include responsibilities like team management, reporting, compliance, and stakeholder communication.

  • Capture details on critical functions, such as decision-making authority and cross-department collaboration.

• [Retail-Specific: Staff Schedules]:

  • Review the current rota to ensure coverage for all shifts.

  • Highlight key peak and off-season periods, adjusting staff schedules to maintain service levels.

• Ongoing Projects and Priorities:

  • List projects currently underway and highlight key deliverables.

  • Ensure deadlines and milestones are clearly documented.

2. Allocating Tasks Temporarily

• Assign Key Responsibilities:

  • Reallocate tasks among senior team members based on skills and availability.

  • Ensure someone oversees daily operations to maintain continuity.

• Provide Support:

  • Offer training or resources to those stepping into interim roles.
  • Establish a system for regular progress updates and issue resolution.

3. Recruitment Process

• Define the Role:

  • Review and update the job description to reflect current needs.

  • Incorporate feedback from the departing manager on challenges and opportunities within