Hello Renate, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Tell us a bit about yourself and your career at Zalando.
Since the store's opening in June 2020, I have been part of the Zalando Outlet Ulm team, and I’m excited to be working here. Over the past few years, I have had the chance to continuously grow and develop at Zalando — a journey that has been enriching both professionally and personally. My dedication, passion, and willingness to take on responsibility led to my development for the role of Assistant Store Manager in 2023, and I was promoted to this position in April 2024.
What do you like most about your job and working at the Zalando Outlet Store?
Retail has always been my professional home. I love the variety of tasks, the opportunity to take responsibility, and the chance to connect with a wide range of people. Daily challenges help me grow and contribute to the store's success. Working at the Zalando Outlet is especially fulfilling because I can actively contribute to creating a unique shopping experience for our customers while being part of a dynamic team. With my experience, motivation, and attention to detail, I want to continue to be part of the success of our store and team.
What motivates you in your daily job?
What makes this job special is the variety of tasks: I shape the shopping experience for our customers, lead and inspire my team, and tackle daily challenges that push me to grow. Zalando is a place where my ideas are heard and can make a real impact — in an environment that always stays innovative.
What advice would you give to others who aspire to your role?
If you're looking for a job that goes far beyond just being a profession, Zalando is the perfect place for you. Here, you’ll find the ideal mix of responsibility and teamwork. Individuality is valued, and your strengths are nurtured. You’ll have the opportunity to work closely with a dynamic and diverse team while also developing your leadership skills.
What does teamwork mean in your team?
Teamwork in our team means building a foundation of trust, where open communication and genuine collaboration take center stage. It involves brainstorming ideas together and allowing everyone to be themselves — with all their strengths and weaknesses. We support one another, balance out differences, and create space to make mistakes and learn from them. This ensures that we achieve great results as a team at the end of the day.
Have you ever changed teams or roles at Zalando? How was this experience?
I began my journey in the company as a Floor Specialist in the men’s department. After some time, I moved to the women’s department at the request of the management, which presented an exciting new challenge. The next step was my development toward becoming an Assistant Store Manager.
This transition came with several challenges that pushed me both personally and professionally: earning acceptance within the team, meeting expectations in new areas, and continuing to support my team effectively. During this time, my lead guided me with inspiration, challenge, and encouragement, which helped me grow beyond my limits. It was a rewarding, though sometimes difficult, phase that left a lasting impact — and one I wouldn’t trade for anything because it was incredibly formative and valuable.
What are the unique challenges of working with customers?
Working with customers brings many exciting challenges. It’s about creating an inspiring shopping experience that goes beyond simply selling products. Quickly and competently answering customer inquiries — no matter how specific or demanding — requires a high level of empathy and flexibility. The goal is to recognize the customers’ needs, offer suitable solutions, and always remain friendly and professional. Our aim is to ensure that every customer leaves the store with a smile and a sense of appreciation, encouraging them to return.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
My colleagues and our customers inspire me every day. Their different perspectives, ideas, and stories motivate me to always give my best, continue growing, and stay creative. Together, we not only achieve great results but also create a work atmosphere defined by mutual respect, exchange, and inspiration.
What advice would you give to someone new to the store or recently changing their career?
Always believe in yourself! Mistakes aren’t setbacks — they’re valuable learning moments. Don’t let challenges discourage you. Instead, grow because of them. Keep your goals in mind, even when things get tough. Let the energy and opportunities at Zalando inspire you. Take every chance to develop yourself and trust that you can achieve more than you might think. Your journey has only just begun — keep going!
What do you need to succeed as an Assistant Store Manager at Zalando?
To be successful, I need a strong team that always has my back and supports me. Success is never a solo effort — I’m only as good as the team and the people around me allow me to be. Together, we create a foundation where everyone can grow and reach their potential. The trust, collaboration, and support of my team — both internally and externally — are the essential building blocks for my success and our collective achievements. Together, we foster an environment where everyone can excel, and where we achieve great results as a team.
Would you like to be part of our Outlet team? Learn more about our open positions, locations and teams.
