October Mentor Spotlight featuring Cristina McAloon
Background and Introduction
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your current role?
I am a mom of three, currently residing in Las Vegas, with a passion for retail. I have worked in the industry since I was 13 years old, graduated from FIT with a Merchandising degree, and started my career in buying with brands such as The Limited and Ralph Lauren. Eight years ago I transitioned into sports, and I am currently working at Athletes Unlimited as Sr. Director of Retail. A role that allows me to influence four sports (Softball, Basketball, Lacrosse, and Volleyball) under one shop while catering to various fan bases. I am incredibly fortunate – as I get to be strategic, analytical, and creative while amplifying a mission I very much believe in.
What inspired you to pursue this career?
When I worked on the sales floor, there was always a part of me that wanted to be in the office making decisions for the consumer. Whether it was the product, the merchandising, the fixtures, the signage, or even the promotions we ran. I found all of it fascinating and very much wanted to learn, study, observe, and grow within the industry. During college I was lucky enough to do just that through an internship with Newport News. It was specifically within their buying department and that cemented it for me – there was nowhere else I wanted to be…. I set out to become an Assistant Buyer post-graduation.
Career Journey
Can you share a defining moment or turning point in your career?
The United Center in 2017 was a definite turning point. It reinvigorated my love for retail through the sports licensing lens, and I now can’t imagine doing anything else. No matter what I was / am responsible for: NBA, NHL, MLB, NFL, or AU – strategically preparing for a season with our team and interacting with the fans is pure joy for me.
Daily Life and Skills
What does a typical day look like for you in your current role?
No day is ever the same, which is part of the fun. Checking in with the team and reviewing our task list is first, and then it’s diving right in… internal emails, meetings, art approvals or purchase order communication with vendors, sales analysis, inventory management, website enhancements, order updates, customer service inquiries, and any launch / marketing needs. I am that person with twelve tabs open at any given time and way too many downloads on their laptop, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. Absolutely love our team, the community we are a part of, and the business we manage.
Advice and Inspiration
What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in your field?
Retail in itself is a team sport. There are so many incredible departments working together to make it all happen: design, production, buying, planning, allocation, merchandising, visual, marketing, finance, e-comm, stores, content, wholesale, styling, etc. My advice would be to research and / or shadow various roles, and be open to new opportunities that may come your way. You may love retail – but you want to find a position that brings you joy, keeps you engaged, and allows you to grow.
In addition, if you want to stand out while interviewing, doing your research prior is essential. You want to review their website, social platforms, competitors and assortments so that you not only have observations on their current strategy but respectful recommendations for improvement. It may end up taking you a few extra hours, but I promise you that being prepared will always be worth it.
Life Outside of Work
How do you manage work and life responsibilities, especially during busy or stressful periods?
Whether it’s a stressful time or not, the focus is always on progress (aka small wins) vs. perfection. As a working mom, I am big on lists and calendars. You want to ensure you are prioritizing, hitting deadlines, and being present for the moments or meetings that truly matter. Which may mean declining certain invites and blocking time for yourself to get tasks done. I also think it’s essential to have that mentor, co-worker, or friend that you can count on if you are overwhelmed or in a rut. We are all human and none of us are robots – so in those tougher moments being understood and / or encouraged goes a long way.
Looking Ahead
What are your future career goals or aspirations?
A year ago I would have said to you that becoming Chief Merchandising Offer was the goal. But to be honest, it’s become more about impact and growth than a specific title. I work every single day to be better than I was yesterday – as a mom, leader, co-worker, and friend. The next step in my career is to continue putting in the work: learning, innovating, amplifying the business / brand I represent, and championing an industry that I adore. There is no greater feeling than knowing you had a positive impact on someone’s day or career – so supporting and inspiring is the goal.
Personal Insights
What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?
I am not sure there is one moment. It’s more about seeing the product or shopping experience you helped create resonate with others. It’s being in the shop or at gameday with the fans – helping them discover a style they love or seeing them rep a new collaboration / collection. That, to me, is what matters and why many of us can’t imagine doing anything else. Yes, we are all tied to financial metrics and you can’t run a business purely based on heart… but building that connection and bringing joy to others through merchandise is what I am most proud of.
Fun and Light-hearted
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of my favorite quotes is actually a spin on Theodore Roosevelt’s “man in the arena” made popular recently by Brene Brown during one of her Ted talks. She flips the narrative to be about the “woman” in the arena – and speaks to how important it is to be vulnerable, brave, and authentically you. The saying originated in 1910 and it still very much holds true today. It is a constant reminder that criticism will always come second to courage, that experience trumps failure, and that victory or success reflects dedication.
Closing
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I would say that no matter what dream you end up chasing, please remember to always bet on yourself. Ignore the noise, any type of comparison, unnecessary pressures, and the naysayers. In those moments of self-doubt, stay true to yourself and remember how capable you are.
Where can our readers follow your work or connect with you?
LinkedIn is the best place to find me. More than happy to connect or assist with any retail-related career inquiries.
linkedin.com/in/cristina-davis-mcaloon-0057317