Welch Rise Through Ranks At The MarketPlace
Tahjae Welch has risen from an entry-level position all the way to Store Manager at the MarketPlace, with the company noting how “determination, hard work, and a positive support system can lead to impressive career advancement in Bermuda’s retail grocery industry.”
A spokesperson said, “Starting his journey with The MarketPlace in 2016 straight out of high school, Welch began as a merchandiser and cashier, working his way through various roles across the company’s stores. Through dedication and a willingness to learn, he progressed through multiple positions, including roles at PriceRite and the Dollar stores, where he gained valuable experience in store operations.”
“The most important lesson I learned early on was about proper inventory management and customer service,” says Welch. “As you move up the ladder, you have to be increasingly mindful of how you interact with both customers and associates, because more eyes are on you and your customer service standards need to keep elevating.”
A spokesperson added, “In 2020, Welch joined The MarketPlace’s innovative Pathways to Leadership Programme, which proved to be a turning point in his career. The programme paired him with experienced mentors who guided his development through various roles, including Grocery Department Lead, Assistant Manager, and eventually to his current position as Store Manager at The MarketPlace’s A1 Paget location.”
“The Pathways to Leadership Programme has been transformative for my career,” Welch shares. “It provided me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on leadership roles. I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited about my future with The MarketPlace.”
Seth Stutzman, President of The MarketPlace, says: “Tahjae exemplifies what we love to see in our young Bermudian talent – dedication, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to grow. His journey from entry-level to Store Manager demonstrates that with hard work and a positive can-do attitude, there are real opportunities for career advancement right here in Bermuda.”
The MarketPlace said they are “particularly proud of how Welch embodies the company’s commitment to exceptional customer service.”
A recent testimonial from Mrs. O. Stovell, a former business teacher and school vice-principal, captured the essence of his dedication to customer care: “As a former educator, I wish I could have said this young man was one of my ex-students as he would have made me proud,” she wrote. “He is definitely a people-person aiming to please his customers. I wouldn’t have guessed he is a manager, as whenever I asked about a product, he went and got it for me, served as a cashier, answered queries, or sought out the answers. He always stopped what he was doing and served me and other customers, which is what I saw on different occasions.”
Mrs. Stovell’s letter went on to praise Welch’s exceptional work ethic, politeness, and respectfulness, noting that “he has not shown any agitation at being interrupted or passed you onto someone else. He did it himself until you were satisfied.”
Vernon Hassell, Vice President of Purchasing & Procurement, adds: “Watching Tahjae’s progression through our organization has been incredibly rewarding. He has embraced every challenge, shown remarkable leadership potential, and consistently delivered results. His success story is exactly why we created the Pathways to Leadership Programme – to identify and nurture local talent who can grow with our company.”
Looking ahead, Welch has set ambitious goals for himself, including managing larger stores and eventually aspiring to become Vice President of Operations.
“The MarketPlace has shown me that there’s no limit to what you can achieve if you’re willing to put in the work,” he says.
To young Bermudians considering their career options, Welch offers this advice: “Anything is possible. Don’t limit yourself. I came to The MarketPlace straight out of high school with no college degree, but through hard work and the support of this company, I’ve been able to build a rewarding career. The opportunities are there – you just have to be ready to seize them.”
A spokesperson added, “For more information about career opportunities at The MarketPlace or our Pathways to Leadership Programme, contact the HR team at hr@marketplace.bm.”
