Retail Management Program Profile

Describe a typical day for you at work.
As a trainee of the Retail Management Program (RMP), a typical day at Gap Inc. is really anything but typical. Each day is truly a new day, with different challenges and learning opportunities that widen my perspective on the many "sub-businesses" that make up a global company.

In my current merchandising rotation, I analyze the previous season's products, help make decisions to impact an upcoming season's delivery, and begin thinking about inspiration and trends for seasons as much as a year away — all in the same day! I'll also attend fit sessions and meetings, and research the competitive landscape, all with the customer in mind.

What do you like about Gap Inc.?
One of the key factors that attracted me to Gap Inc. is the diverse group of people that work here. Not only has everyone that I have met been incredibly friendly and welcoming, but they are also amazingly talented, knowledgeable, and intelligent individuals with so much to share — they've motivated me to push myself to really learn all that I can learn. Everyone makes such an effort to support members of the RMP to ensure clear understanding of the job and help set us up for success within the company.

What do you like about living in the Bay Area?
Moving to the Bay Area has been a true awakening — it offers such a wide array of diversity, culture, arts, food, and, of course, shopping! It's great to discover the distinct neighborhoods and events, including music festivals, art openings, or — my personal favorite — finding cuisines that I've never eaten before. It's also great to visit neighboring cities such as Berkeley, Palo Alto, or Napa. I definitely feel fortunate that I can literally do something different every day of the week all year long and never get bored.

What does the future hold for you?
Upon completion of the program, I hope to be placed in one of three departments within the company: merchandising, planning, or production. After I continue to gain experience, I would really like to explore working in the international sector of retail. One of the best things about the RMP — and, for that matter, working at Gap Inc. — is that we are trained in a method that allows us to not only exceed in our current positions, but are also supported in moving across brands or functions throughout the company. Having the option to grow and develop within the company is a big reason I'm excited to see what the future holds for me.