MarketPlace Celebrates Leadership Programme
The MarketPlace said they are “proud to announce the continued success and expansion of its innovative Pathways to Leadership Programme.”
A spokesperson said, “Launched in 2021, this comprehensive initiative demonstrates The MarketPlace’s unwavering commitment to fostering local talent and developing the next generation of Bermudian retail leaders.
Seth Stutzman, President of The MarketPlace group of stores said, “Our Pathways to Leadership Programme represents a unique opportunity for our local Bermudian associates who aspire to leadership roles and career advancement within the grocery and retail industry. We are thrilled about enhancing our role in supporting and developing our homegrown talents and wish them all the best success.”
Zoila Johnston – Assistant Store Manager [left], Michael Cann – Group Produce Director [centre], Tahjae Welch – Assistant Store Manager [right]
A spokesperson added, “Programme Highlights:
“1. Comprehensive Training: The programme offers hands-on experience across various departments, including produce, meat, bakery, and warehouse management. It provides participants with a holistic understanding of supermarket operations.
“2. Personalized Career Paths: Each participant receives a tailored leadership pathway based on their experience and interests, ensuring optimal personal and professional growth.
“3. Structured Advancement: The programme features clearly defined stages, from department lead positions to store management roles, offering a clear trajectory for career progression.
“4. Success Stories: The programme has seen numerous success stories across its three cohorts. Our third and current cohort includes:
- Michael Cann, who has advanced from Store Manager to Group Produce Director.
- Tahjae Welch, who has secured an Assistant Store Manager role.
- Zoila Johnston, who has been promoted from Customer Service Manager to Assistant Store Manager.
“5. Ongoing Expansion: The programme continues to grow, with the current third cohort of participants demonstrating The MarketPlace’s ongoing commitment to talent development.
Michael Cann, who advanced from Store Manager to Group Produce Director through the programme said: ‘The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been instrumental in my career growth at The MarketPlace. It provided me with a comprehensive understanding of our operations across different departments, which has been invaluable in my new role overseeing multiple produce sections. This programme truly invests in Bermudian talent and opens doors for career advancement that I never thought possible in the retail industry.’”
Tahjae Welch, another member of the current cohort, shared his experience: “The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been transformative for my career. It provided me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on a leadership role. I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited about my future with The MarketPlace.”
Zoila Johnston, who was promoted from Customer Service Manager to Assistant Store Manager as part of the programme, shares her journey: “The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been a game-changer for my career at The MarketPlace. It provided me with a unique opportunity to expand my skills beyond customer service and gain a comprehensive understanding of store operations. The hands-on experience and mentorship I received have been invaluable. This programme truly demonstrates The MarketPlace’s commitment to nurturing local talent and providing real career growth opportunities. I’m excited to use my enhanced skills to ensure our customers continue to receive the exceptional service they deserve.”
Shahidah Shamsid-Deen, Training Manager, adds: “The Pathways to Leadership programme allows The MarketPlace to identify and train future leaders while maintaining our commitment to community values and exceptional customer service. We are confident that our future leaders will build on the hard work and effort produced by our inaugural group, succeed in their leadership roles, and continue to elevate the shopping experience for our valued customers. By developing well-rounded leaders who understand every aspect of our business, we ensure that customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of everything we do.”
A spokesperson added, “The programme, which takes between one to three years to complete, covers various aspects of retail management, including inventory management, customer service, operations, and leadership skills. It is open to current Bermudian employees or spouses of Bermudians only, reinforcing The MarketPlace’s commitment to local talent development.
“Since its inception, The MarketPlace’s Pathways to Leadership Programme has benefited over 80 Bermudians, with 15 employees either having completed or currently enrolled in this years programme.
“Looking ahead, The MarketPlace plans to expand the programme further, aiming to increase participation by 50% in the coming year. Additionally, the company is exploring partnerships with local educational institutions to provide academic credits for programme participants, further enhancing the value of this unique professional development opportunity.
“As The MarketPlace continues to invest in its people, it remains a cornerstone of Bermuda’s retail landscape, providing quality products, exceptional customer service, and opportunities for Bermudians to grow and excel in their careers.
“For more information about the Pathways to Leadership Programme or to express interest in participating, please contact our HR team at hr@marketplace.bm”
Keep up the good work Marketplace. Congrats to those who have passed the course.
Zoila has always been organized, kind and pleasant and customer oriented. I know her only from shopping at the dollar depot and then the marketplace. I was thrilled to see her promoted to customer service manager, but now to see her grow into an assistant store manager role is amazing! Thank you marketplace for rewarding hard work and excellent customer service. Zoila, well done and most deserving!!!! I expect someday to see you rise to the position of store manager!!!
Congratulations to all!!!