Emerging Store Manager

About the Role

The Emerging Store Manager (ESM) serves as a critical partner to the Store Manager, acting as the operational backbone of the Walgreens pharmacy and retail store. This role is designed to prepare high-potential leaders for future Store Manager positions by providing hands-on experience in managing full store operations, including the front end and pharmacy.

In this position, you will assume the responsibilities of the Store Manager in their absence, ensuring business continuity and the achievement of company deliverables. You will work an alternate schedule with minimal overlap to maintain seamless coverage, overseeing daily activities from opening and closing procedures to complex cash management and inventory control. The ESM is accountable for driving store performance through data analysis, fostering a culture of accountability, and ensuring the highest standards of customer service and safety.

Day in the Life

Your day will be a dynamic blend of leadership, operations, and community engagement. You will start by reviewing financial and performance data to identify opportunities for growth, then move to the floor to engage with customers and resolve complaints, modeling best practices for your team. A significant portion of your time will be dedicated to leading and developing your associates—conducting coaching sessions, managing performance plans, and recruiting new talent to build a diverse pipeline of future leaders.

You will collaborate with external partners to drive community outreach and support the Pharmacy Operations Manager in seeking new opportunities. Whether you are supervising register counts, managing inventory trends, or ensuring the store environment is safe and presentable, your focus remains on creating a positive experience for patients and shoppers while maintaining strict compliance with all laws and company policies.

Hiring Process & Development

Candidates selected for this role will be expected to complete the Store Manager learning and development program (LEAP) or Walgreens Leadership Essentials training within 12 weeks of their start date. Success in this position requires a commitment to continuous self-development, including maintaining a valid pharmacy technician license where required by state law.

This role is a stepping stone to advancement; successful ESMs are expected to demonstrate a willingness to accept promotion into a Store Manager position, which may involve relocation to a different store location. The position also requires flexibility to work extended days, evenings, and weekends, with the ability to transfer to other Walgreens retail assets within the hiring area as needed.

Our Commitment to Diversity

Walgreens is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. We consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records and are committed to promoting pay transparency and equal employment opportunities. We actively seek to build a diverse pipeline of future leaders and ensure our team reflects the communities we serve.