How the Field Leadership Development Program is helping the next generation of leaders to shine at Sunglass Hut.

Our Field Leadership Development Program (FLDP) is transforming the way our people advance in their careers. This program enables them to develop skills, gain confidence, and become competent managers who can drive results across multiple stores.

We spoke to one of our participants, Natasha Duran, Store Manager and her mentor in the program, Rachel Rider , Regional Manager.

Read on to discover what it’s like working alongside senior leaders, sharing ideas, growing as a team, and applying what they’ve learned to achieve exciting results.

PEOPLE-DRIVEN PROGRESS

Our alumni all agreed that one of the biggest learnings from the program is how to maximize the potential from their team.

NATASHA: While a big part of it is about my development and skills – it was, in fact, about my people. I became incredibly focused on thoughts like, ‘how do I become a better leader for them?’, ‘how was I going to be their champion?, ‘how was l going to grow my leadership voice to continue to guide them, help them run effective business, keep it simple, have fun, and achieve our goals?’

RACHEL: Throughout the FLDP, I observed Natasha's development. She took the time to slow down and build new connections. She showed the ability to step in and foster growth conversations with each of her leaders. The results were incredible as she was able to build trust.

LEARNING FROM THE BEST

Participants are mentored by senior leaders from across Sunglass Hut, which ensures a variety of experience and knowledge is shared with our future leaders. By collaborating, they naturally form networks with leaders in similar positions. This fosters mutual success and growth through idea-sharing and mutual learning from each other's experiences.

NATASHA: Partnership is key, whether it was with other FLDP members, Regional Managers, or Market Managers – I was constantly learning from other people and never felt like I had to do it alone. We are all in this together, sharing wins are the best wins and everyone has the same goal of succeeding together.

RACHEL: Natasha often went beyond expectations, proactively reaching out to her peers. She wasn't afraid to ask questions, demonstrating her ability to be vulnerable. She'd readily connect with her peers and teammates over the phone. Natasha used the FLDP opportunity to build new relationships and continues to keep in touch with her peers from the program.

LONG-TERM, LIFELONG GROWTH

The most effective training promotes development long after its completion. We asked the participants how they felt about their long-term changes since completing the FLDP.

NATASHA: I learned that being comfortable in being uncomfortable is one of my favorite feelings, any time I had apprehension about having a tough conversation I always left feeling like I grew, and I learned something new. Fierce conversations aren’t easy but only make more fierce leaders on both ends.

RACHEL: Natasha is very thoughtful and enjoys connecting with her peers. She addresses issues appropriately and offers ongoing support.

The true aspiration of FLDP is changing how our rising talent approach their leadership skills. It places priority on employees, promotes a thriving network, and encourages a mindset of seeking growth opportunities. Natasha and Rachel are remarkable examples of individuals who have applied themselves, honed their skills, and will continue to drive our company forward in the years to come!

We’d like to say a huge thanks to Natasha Duran and Rachel Rider for sharing their insights on the FLDP. If this sounds interesting to you, Sunglass Hut is continually seeking enthusiastic individuals interested in retail and leadership. Find opportunities to shine with us and learn more by visiting our careers site here: https://www.sunglasshut.com/us/careers