Renaldo Phillips says there’s nothing a person can’t achieve with determination and hard work. | Supplied
Durban — Nothing is impossible to achieve with the necessary hard work and hunger to obtain it, regardless of one’s background.
It’s a lesson Renaldo Phillips, 38, from Phoenix, has lived by since he was a young man.
“No matter what you face, taking a step back to think objectively without letting emotions cloud your judgement will help you overcome it. There is always a solution. If you cannot find it on your own, seek advice from someone with experience,” he said.
“I maintain a highly optimistic outlook in business and my personal life. A challenge is simply a tough situation that, like everything else in life, will eventually pass,” said Phillips.
His attitude has contributed to his recent promotion to Shoprite Group’s general manager for private label and imports (food).
As a teenager, Phillips juggled between being a salesman, service clerk and a driver, as well as doing in-store promotions on weekends. In 2010, he clinched his first job as a trainee buyer.
Phillips said he got into the retail sector unexpectedly, driven by desperation to finance his studies. Once immersed, he discovered its fast pace and daily challenges aligned well with his motivations.
He said he had one of the most satisfying jobs one could have because buyers were at the heart of an organisation’s decision-making process and could make a difference in the lives of millions of people.
He is the driving force behind private label brands such as Forage and Feast, Simple Truth, Homegrown and Lovies.
He was involved in the company’s acquisition of new stores in Mauritius, but his focus shifted into private labels and imports in 2015, becoming head buyer in 2019 and growing the division by more than 80%.
He said his greatest achievement on the job was having a team that supported him, and that without them, there was no success.
“One man cannot do everything. We can guide, we can lead but we cannot multiply ourselves,” said Phillips.
He said his biggest motivation was to ensure his family had access to a better life, and to honour the legacy and hard work of his late father.
Independent on Saturday
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