Manager in Training Program Profile

Describe a typical day for you at work.
The first thing I do when I walk in is evaluate my store. I look at the sales floor to determine what areas are due for replenishment, moves or promotion, and then consider ways to improve sales productivity, such as improving the visual display of products. After this walk-through I write a to-do list based on the evaluation. Then, I either begin planning for the day or I take over as Customer Experience Officer (CEO) and run the floor.

While performing the CEO role, I am fully responsible for coaching and developing my team, as well as setting the tone for our customers — that is, ensuring the best possible customer experience and driving results. Ending the day may mean passing off CEO duties to another team member and ensuring that all areas are covered until closing time. If I'm closing, I need to make sure closing procedures meet our standards and the store is completely returned to order.

What do you like about Gap Inc.?
I really like Gap Inc.'s philosophy concerning work/life balance. Just the fact that the company is in tune with its employees and understands that a happy employee is a successful and productive employee goes a long way. I've worked for other retailers whose lack of attention to balance makes them less-ideal places to work.

What do you like about living in the Bay Area?
I'm originally from Southern California, so, to be honest, it's been a bit of an adjustment living in the Bay Area. But I'm enjoying the change! I find that Southern Californians are generally more laid back, while those in the North tend to be more expressive. The Bay Area draws a very diverse crowd, which I love because it means you can try new activities and food all the time. Ultimately, people make the difference, and I think the people here are great. 

What does the future hold for you?
Eventually, I'd love to go into marketing, preferably in the area of brand consulting. I'm particularly intrigued by "lifestyle branding," i.e. creating brands that reflect and reinforce the lifestyles of their customers. I love the idea of creating a personality for a company and then figuring out ways to market that brand to your target customer.