Johann Patterson, the very personable Captain of the Trader Joe's store in University Shopping Center in Thousand Oaks, left an indelible, positive impression on students in Ritch's Marketing class today. Taking time from his busy schedule to be with students, the energetic, outgoing and inspiring store manager shared how he rose from his entry level job to manage the "neighborhood store" close to the California Lutheran University campus.
The Captain also spoke about the history, culture and products that comprise TJ's brand. Additionally, he gave examples which directly related to student interest in not just getting a job but also how to keep it. The Captain is a wonderful ambassador for the highly popular grocery with great natural products at reasonable prices.
I don't know anyone who doesn't like Trader Joe's. Talk about carving out a unique brand -- they are a great example of cutting through the clutter of a commodity business (grocery stores) and finding a niche all their own. Hat's off to the Captain and his team.
ReplyDeleteCaptain Johann was quite the interesting and personable speaker. You could really tell that he has a great attitude about his job, which is something that not everyone has. He emphasized the welcoming atmosphere that he and his team not only have amongst each other, but bring to customers as well. This attitude has been evident to me every time I visit Trader Joe's.
ReplyDeleteJohann Patterson was definitely different from other speakers we have had in class. He really showed his true colors; his personality and sense of humor was able to capture the audience's attention. Because of this, insight was gained to the way Trader Joe's works, and how important it is to not only do your best at work, but to enjoy your job as well. Johann uses his upbeat personality and hard-working mentality daily, and it has proven to be successful.
ReplyDeleteThought Johann was great. I really enjoyed his "rags to riches" story, as he started at the bottom of Trader Joe's, making his way up after years of dedication. I especially liked the fact that nothing was really memorized, as he spoke from personal experience. He actually WANTED to speak to us, and I think that showed through when he gave his story.
ReplyDeleteRitch, very nice. But I'm curious: why does Johann call himself The Captain (obviously, he watched the latest episode of How I Met Your Mother), and why is he dressed as a pirate? I assume I already know the answer (he is creating a personal brand identity for himself), but I would like to know what he told your students.
ReplyDelete@ Mr Pillow: Titles at Trader Joe's are nautical. He refers to his staff as crew.
ReplyDeleteI was really impressed by Johann's unique personal style and how he was able to maintain it despite being in the business world. He demonstrates that people should be judged by what they can do and not how they look.
I'm glad we met Johann today. It shows great character in a company that believes in their people and helps support them on a rise to leadership. His honesty, and support, for the work he does and the environment he creates is what clearly stood out today.
ReplyDeleteFrom a modest beginning Johann has worked his way up to a prime leadership position at what many consider their neighborhood store. Lucky for Johann, he represents what is now a billion dollar brand.
It was great having Johann come and talk to our class. You can definitely tell the passion he has for his job and his role as a Captain for Trader Joe’s. I will be glad if I ever see his bright personality again at Trader Joe’s or in the community.
ReplyDeleteRitch, I've never heard of Trader Joe's but interesting that he's in the "grocery" business and has established a brand name with natural products. In the New York and Pennsylvania area we have a grocery chain that has been developed along somewhat the same lines as TJ. The chain is "Wegman's". It's family owned and operated and according to local paper, in 2009 it was rated as one of the top 100 best places to work in the USA.
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