Molly Preisel: Sunday Spotlight

We asked our former Publicity Chair, @mollypreisel about her experience in CRA, and how its helped her start her career, for today’s #SundaySpotlight! 

Q: Where will you be working and what is your position? 
A: I just finished my second week training as an Allocation Analyst for TJX. Analysts work closely with buyers to make sure we have a good variety of styles and brands on the floor. I will be analyzing sales data from past weeks and choosing which items we have in inventory. I’m also able to solve issues in the fulfillment centers to make sure the correct goods are moving along in order to get on the sales floor in a timely manner.

Q: How has CRA helped you to prepare for this role? 
A: CRA helped me prepare for this role by giving me exposure to many different retail companies and available positions throughout the industry. Through both general member meetings as well as the NRF Retail Show there were many opportunities to network with other people in the industry and learn about what career opportunities would be best suited for me.

Q: Do you have any advice to those who are looking for a job in retail?
A: I would say go to career fairs and networking events, anywhere you can get exposure to new opportunities or people in the industry. Do your research before you meet companies, there could be companies out there you have never heard of that are everything you are looking for in a job. Lastly, pursue something you are passionate about that you can be excited about going to work everyday!

Vianna Hennig: Sunday Spotlight

Read below for an interview from @vianna_hennig , our former External Vice President, as she details how @msucra helped her get where she is today!

Q: Where will you be working and what is your position?
A: At the end of September I will be starting as an Inventory Analyst for @target . Originally, I was planning on moving to Minneapolis but for now it will be virtual. Simply put: I’ll be working with buyers and planners in a business unit making sure consumers/stores have the products they want, when they want it.

Q: How has CRA helped you prepare for this role?
A: As a supply chain major, @msucra helped me identify career opportunities and how different retail companies are operating their supply chain. You learn technical skills in class, but in CRA you’re able to learn from people living it day in and day out. On top of that you meet amazing friends, mentors, and recruiters by being a part of it.

Q: Do you have any advice for those looking for a job in retail?
A: My advice - connect with people. Build relationships that are more than just transactional. Understand your specialty and your talents, and don’t be afraid to pursue jobs and opportunities that make you uncomfortable!!

Taylor Spence: Sunday Spotlight

CRA’s former CRA president @taylorspence43 has given us some quick insight on how CRA has helped her get to where she is today!

Where will you be working and what is your position? 
In September I will be starting my career as an Account Manager at Nolan Transportation Group (NTG). NTG is a third-party logistics company that matches shippers to carriers. My position is responsible for keeping product moving from point A to point B, which is critical for multiple industries, including retail. 

How has CRA helped to prepare you for this role? 
CRA helped me develop my confidence and communication skills. These skills are vital to the Account Manager role as I build my book of business and develop relationships with my clients.