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Jenna Koller

Degree: Bachelor of Science
Major: Retail Merchandising

Previous job titles and organizations:
Territory Manager - L'Oreal Paris

Current Job Title: Retail Operations
Organization: L'Oreal Paris

How did you find this job?
I found this job in the newspaper.

Please describe your job including typical daily tasks and primary job responsibilities:
I provide support for L'Oreal National Account Managers and Field Sales Vice President at Target by serving as a liaison between L'Oreal Marketing teams and Target Marketing. I lead L'Oreal Retail Representatives on Target instore activities and opportunities, work with Target buyers to achieve sales growth with detail analysis, and work with L'Oreal NAM, Category Management and Marketing to create productive planograms.

What from your educational experience at the U of M (courses, activities, study abroad, etc.) was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
Retail Merchandising focused on the mass market retail industry in many courses. Retail Buying, Marketing, Accounting were just a few classes that helped build my base understanding of the industry. L'Oreal is a marketing company and as the industry becomes more entrenched in financials, its been a fun challenge to balance both in day to day functions.

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field? What surprised you the most?
misconception is that our company is dominated by women. I report to one of best National Account Managers at L'Oreal who is a man. He sells in lipsticks and eyeshadows everyday. It always surprises people that a man can sell makeup. A product is a product and as long as it’s superior, it doesn't matter who sells it.

What advice do you have for current students to help them make the most of their university experience or maximize their job search?
Keep an open mind. Retail is a large industry, its not just about becoming a Target or Macy's buyer. Retail encompasses grocery, manufacturing, sales, product design and the list goes on. Retail is everywhere and there are so many different avenues one can take. I had no idea how many opportunities there really were when I graduated. Opportunities are endless when you look outside the box!