2026 Fall Retail Management Internship- Mall in Columbia

Retail Management Intern

LOFT creates modern, feminine, versatile clothing for women with one common style goal: to look and feel confident wherever the day takes them. We empower women to find their authentic self-expression because feeling like yourself is always in style. Here at LOFT, we're busy styling the careers and supporting the lives of everyday optimists just like you. Express your authentic self and experience endless inspiration, all while enjoying the opportunities and benefits that help you get the most from your career, life, and wardrobe.

The Retail Management Intern Program delivers a best-in-class retail leadership-focused experience for juniors, seniors, and recent graduates with an interest and desire to build a career in retail. Over the course of the program, interns will be provided with a challenging hands-on experience in retail leadership through functional area touch points, developmental classes, and executive exposure. Interns can expect to learn from the best in the business about communication, client experience, human resources, store operations, loss prevention, merchandising, and more!

Interns are expected to work approximately 20-25 hours per week with a flexible work schedule (e.g., nights, weekends, and holidays) and regular work attendance is necessary. Interested applicants must possess a client-first mentality, be a collaborative team player, and results-oriented.

This opportunity will allow you to:

• Work in fashion and develop your leadership skills by working alongside our top store leaders as an Acting Sales Lead (key holder)
• Motivate associates to anticipate the clients' needs and exceed her expectations
• Drive results while monitoring key metrics and identify business trends and opportunities
• Utilize available tools and resources to ensure an efficient, client-focused environment: problem solving and resolution
• Gain experience in merchandising through planning, executing, and adjusting visual directives to support business priorities
• Partner with store leaders to create a great place to work and shop
• Develop skills in recruiting, selection, and training of hourly associates

In addition to Sales Associate role of providing an excellent Customer Experience, as an Acting Sales Lead, the Intern is responsible for supporting the Store Manager and Assistant Store Manager in overseeing the operational functioning of the store including, but not limited to:

• Support the business strategy & adjust to effectively reach goals
• Drive revenue by proactively managing the client experience as Manager On Duty Assume the MOD role when Store Manager/Assistant Store Manager is not on the floor
• Drive sales volume & anticipate clients' needs while communicating store metrics & individual performance to motivate associates
• Coach Associates "in the moment" on client interactions & performance to maximize productivity & capture client opportunities
• Possess keys to the store, perform opening and closing procedures in the absence of management (e.g., opening/closing registers, opening checklists, bank deposits, filling in, recovery, cleaning, retrieve/send email, accepts/receives shipment
• Utilize reports to make effective merchandising decisions & style the store in Division standards
• Leverage tools, assess and take action to drive operational excellence through Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's)
• Complete daily tasks to ensure store runs smoothly and meets all standards and guidelines
• Report to work as scheduled; record time worked accurately by using the Time and Attendance system; remain flexible to the needs of the business
• Embrace fashion, understand current market trends and show ability to articulate them using Ann Taylor/LOFT interpretations in every client interaction. Represent the brand by adhering to the dress code guidelines
• Treat others fairly and with respect. Foster an inclusive, diverse, and safe culture

Position Requirements:

• Must be a current college junior, senior or recent college graduate
• Client Service: Ensure that the client remains the top priority while balancing required tasks and overall store operations
• Store Operations and Organization: Ability to organize, delegate, prioritize assignments, and meet deadlines
• Merchandising: Knowledge of visual standards and techniques, and ability to implement and maintain guidelines
• Accuracy: Ability to handle cash and provide change without error. Ability to prepare nightly deposit as necessary. Capture accurate information for all transactions including signatures, addresses, and original receipt data
• Communication: Communicate effectively with Clients, Members of Management, Business Partners, and Store Associates
• Schedule: Ability to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the business, including evening and weekend shifts
• Physical: Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds occasionally. Maneuver effectively around sales floor, stock room and office

Benefits:

• 401(k) plan
• Merchandise discounts plus eligibility for discounts at our sister brands
• Professional development and opportunities for advancement across our brands
• Community impact through our philanthropic partnerships

Location: Store 1570-The Mall in Columbia-ANN-Columbia, MD 21044

Position Type: Intern (Fixed Term)/Part time

Pay Range: $17.00 - $21.25 Hourly USD

Equal Employment Opportunity The Company is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from diverse candidates. Hiring decisions are based upon a candidate's qualifications as they relate to the requirements of the position under consideration and are made without regard to sex (including pregnancy), race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other category protected by applicable law. The Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential duties of the position you are seeking or to participate in the application process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. The Company will make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified applicants or employees, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operations of the Company's business. The Company will not revoke or alter a job offer based on an applicant's request for reasonable accommodation.