Retta

Retta was promoted to Group Manager, Store Staffing and Expense.

"Be creative and don't be afraid to express yourself. I always try to think positive and have an upbeat attitude. I aim to meet, greet and communicate with as many people in the organization and the divisions as possible."

Why did you join Macy's Florida and why have you stayed?

I was recruited to Macy's Florida right out of college. I've always had such positive memories of Burdines because my grandmother took me there when I was a child. During the interviewing process, I felt at home and that I could be an asset to the company. The genuine people that I work with have helped me grow as a person and advance my career. I've stayed because of the personal growth I've had from my coworkers and mentors.

What do you enjoy most about what you do and what are your overall job responsibilities?

I enjoy seeing people grow. I've been a manager since I've been with the company, which has allowed me to see people grow and succeed in their career. My current responsibilities are to develop and train the executives that work for me. I manage them in having the proper staffing in stores and to help the stores monitor and plan their payroll expense.

What contribution do you make to your division and how do you feel you make a difference?

My contribution is in supporting the stores and the people that report to me. I help maintain an overall support function for the stores. Being available to answer questions and figure out expense issues to support my team is my biggest asset.

What has been your most memorable moment since joining the company?

Throughout the years, there have been so many memorable moments with this company. One experience that stands out in my career is when I was promoted to assistant store manager.

How has the training you've received since joining the company benefited you?

The training I've had has helped me get to where I am. I've also gained respect in the company based on my training. A lot of my training has been from people that I've worked for such as general managers and assistant managers. Training has matured me and prepared me for the next level that I've moved into. I continually absorb knowledge from everyone around me.

Is community involvement important to you, have you been involved in any projects in your division and was this something you considered when joining the company?

I've been involved with Partners in Time and Special Olympics, and I volunteer as a tutor at one of our local elementary schools. When first joining the company, I was an active supporter of United Way and since then have grown into participating with other projects.

What do you like best about your work environment?

The people and the ability I have to be creative. I have the opportunity to give my ideas and listen to ideas. I learn from others and my input does count. The flexibility of being able to use my creative thoughts is appreciated and recognized.

What personal interests/hobbies do you have and how do you balance them with your work?

I was an athlete in college so I remain very active at the gym and keeping in shape. I go to the gym after work and from there I go home. My balance is through exercise. I also enjoy reading and movies.

What advice would you give to a new associate joining the company? What helped you establish yourself and move ahead with your career goals?

Be open to learning from everyone that you come in contact with through the company. Be creative and don't be afraid to express yourself. Being fair as a manager and making decisions that are fair for the group has helped me throughout my career. I always try to think positive and have an upbeat attitude. I aim to meet, greet and communicate with as many people in the organization and the divisions as possible.

What do you see in the future for Macy's, Inc.?

I see the front side of shopping changing dramatically. The change will be more efficient and more convenient for the customers. Our mission this year is to have the right pricing, the lowest pricing and pricing that the customer can understand. We have put shopping carts in some department stores that make it more convenient to shop, especially in our home stores. The future shopping experience will evolve over the next few years as Macy's, Inc. works to make it more convenient for the consumers.