Returning to the full-time workforce in 2011 after 10 years as a mostly stay-at-home mom, I joined SAS Retail Services, an Advantage Solutions agency, as a merchandiser working in stores operated by a large supermarket chain that serves the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. I had worked some retail jobs and had been a programmer/coder previously, and I was ready to go back to work.
At SAS, I worked my way up to program director and recently vice president, retail operations. As a former associate working in stores but now working in an office, I make it a priority to bridge any perceived communication gap between the two roles. I understand what our associates who work in stores need and I want to advocate for them.
Being able to pass along my in-store experiences is the most satisfying aspect of my job. I want my team members to feel they’re supported and can learn and grow, that they have career opportunities to go where they want to go.
I’m always looking to make the next step to being a better leader and a better person. I always ask my team, “What do you need from me?” Because that’s why I’m here, to be of service to them. My personal goals are to always continue to improve myself and our service to our retail customer.
My advice to anyone who wants to build a career at SAS and Advantage Solutions is keep working hard and connect with people who can get you where you want to go. There is opportunity here and if you work hard, your accomplishments will be noticed and rewarded.
