Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in retail and eventually establish RetailU?
April Sabral: I grew up in an antique shop; my mother was an antique dealer. I didn’t know at that time my career would be in retail. At 17, I found myself living in a hostel and got a job in a menswear shop in Manchester. That was my first job in a retail store.
Q: How did your early experiences in retail shape your leadership philosophy?
April Sabral: Starting in retail at a young age taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of mentorship. These experiences highlighted the need for positive leadership, which became a cornerstone of my philosophy.
Q: Can you share the mission behind RetailU and how it addresses current challenges in retail leadership?
April Sabral: RetailU was created to provide accessible and practical leadership training tailored specifically for the retail industry. Our mission is to empower retail leaders with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the ever-evolving retail landscape.
Q: In your book, ‘The Positive Effect,’ you discuss the impact of positive leadership. Can you elaborate on this concept?
April Sabral: Positive leadership involves fostering an environment where team members feel valued, motivated, and engaged. This approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also drives productivity and organizational success.
Q: How can retail leaders cultivate a positive and productive culture within their teams?
April Sabral: Leaders can cultivate a positive culture by leading with empathy, recognizing achievements, providing continuous development opportunities, and maintaining open communication channels.
Q: What common challenges do retail leaders face today, and how does RetailU equip them to overcome these obstacles?
April Sabral: Today’s retail leaders face challenges such as high employee turnover, adapting to technological advancements, and meeting evolving customer expectations. RetailU offers courses that address these issues, providing strategies to lead effectively in this dynamic environment.
Q: Can you share a success story where RetailU’s training significantly impacted a retail organization?
April Sabral: We’ve had clients who, after implementing RetailU’s training programs, reported improved employee engagement, increased sales, and a more cohesive team dynamic.
Q: How do you envision the future of retail leadership, especially in the context of technological advancements and changing consumer behaviors?
April Sabral: The future of retail leadership will require adaptability, technological savviness, and a deep understanding of consumer behavior. Leaders will need to balance digital integration with personalized customer experiences.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring retail leaders aiming to make a positive impact in their organizations?
April Sabral: Embrace continuous learning, lead with authenticity, and prioritize building strong relationships with your team and customers.
Q: Can you discuss any upcoming projects or initiatives you are excited about with RetailU?
April Sabral: We are developing new courses focused on digital transformation in retail and expanding our global reach to support retail leaders worldwide.
