What is your title and job responsibilities?
I am a Wholesale Manager. My responsibility is to Increase the customer satisfaction, sales and profitability of independently owned and operated NAPA Auto Parts stores. NAPA products and programs shared with wholesale customers. Work as a business consultant with independent store owners to develop plans used to increase sales, mine new business and proactively managed Outside Sales teams of independent NAPA Auto Parts stores. Identified specific customer needs and aligned them with NAPA offerings. Worked with manufacturer representatives to improve offerings and grow customer product knowledge. Customers engaged and kept connected through NAPA eSales programs and presentations.
What has been your secret in climbing the corporate ladder?
Industry knowledge, planning, consistent daily operations, always being present with the tools needed to support client growth and making sure clients know that I care. Becoming an integrate part of my clients organization by working with and across all departments. Developing client relationships that foster the need for my involvement or input in all company initiatives and or plans. Clients seek, need and appreciate what you bring to the table the moment that it becomes clear that you care and are there to support their business.
What makes a great leader?
Simply being the example and go to for all situations. Now, this does not mean you have the answer for everything but you will get and have an answer that clients and others can count on. Meaning, your experience allows you to understand and work with the newest company hire to the CEO. Being out front to show the way to complete tasks but never micro managing, people have to grow with your support. Most importantly, making sure that those around you understand that what they do is very important and that you can not get it done without them.
What would like your legacy to be?
Having been the spark, support or source of others growth and success. It is not just about my growth and success only, but the difference made in the lives of others during my daily travels and interactions. This, includes building a rock solid foundation with future plans, directions and finances for my family and having helped many others that I have had the blessing to come in contact with also.
What does success look like for you?
Being able to comfortably live life with my family and as liberally as I would like, be able to make contributions to my Church, community and local and national organizations which support the the growth and development of our youth. Grow an inheritance for my child and her children’s children, by successfully completing current business plans.
Where would you like to see your career in the next five years?
My current career is a blessing and I am positioning myself through constant training, self development and strategic company partnerships to move into upper management or supply chain systems. Other career goals include growth in oversea investments, service group expanding into property management and increased marketing of premium healthcare products.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ~Jeremiah 29:11
