After ten years, Darius Young has learned the ins and outs of Jewel-Osco. “I was an Osco manager-I came up in that training program,” he explains. “[I] came over to the food side, now, for six years. It’s good to know both sides if you can, so you can be [focused] on the [entire] store.” Young has been able to maintain his storewide focus and get his associates all on the same page. Managing a wide range of personalities, both customers and associates alike, is no small feat. Young is responsible for making sure the operations of the store are met, making sure his associates are productive, and, of course, making sure the customers are happy.
Young is a people person, and his approach to management is an emphasis on people skills and synergy. “[You have] to really get your associates on board with what you’re trying to do, in terms of [your] expectations as a grocery store,” says Young. “[I have] to get all 105 of my associates in the same direction.” Young understands the benefit of working in an industry that’s more stable than others. “People [have] to eat,” he says. “Even when the economy’s tight [and] people are spending less, [they] tend to grocery shop more, [instead] of going out to eat.”
And Young saw the opportunities with Jewel-Osco and he encourages others to do the same. “From a mobility standpoint, there are a lot of possibilities,” he says. “I had great teachers. I’ve worked with some very experienced, diverse people. And to be able to take their experiences and [blend] those ideas shaped my management style.” He also credits a personal commitment to excellence for his success. “Holding myself to a higher standard has kept me focused and moving forward.” -todd williams
