Steve Phillips leaving local Wal-Mart
After nearly 12 years as manager of our local Wal-Mart, Steve Phillips has landed the job as manager of the newest Wal-Mart in Murfreesboro, the one closest to Woodbury. Steve said 85 people from around the United States applied for the position.
‘I’m excited about it, but at the same time it’s tough to leave behind the friends I’ve made here,’ said Steve. ‘In the past, I used to move around every couple of years so staying here for 12 years in one spot was really enjoyable for me. But I feel it’s important to be a part of the community you’re working in.’
Because he wants to be involved in the Murfreesboro community, Steve and his family will be moving there. In addition to Wal-Mart, he plays a big role at his church, Northside Baptist, where he is the worship leader.
Steve has actually been serving as manager of both our Wal-Mart and the new store he’s moving to since August. The former store manager there needed to take a medical leave which turned out to be permanent rather than temporary so Steve managed both stores longer than he intended.
‘It’s been a lot of running back and forth and it was extremely challenging over the holidays,’ said Steve. ‘It’s probably one of the greatest challenges I’ve ever faced.’
Steve’s last day in McMinnville is this Saturday. He says his new store does a lot more volume and has a much different merchandise selection to cater to the college crowd. The store in Murfreesboro employs around 400 people, while our store currently has about 350.
As for our Wal-Mart, a new manager will be selected by the same process. Applications will be accepted from all over the country.
McMinnville resident Annie Cantrell is currently co-manager of our Wal-Mart, which means she’s second in charge. Annie says she’s interested in the No. 1 job, but has no idea about her chances.
‘There will probably be 100 people who sign up for it,’ said Annie. ‘They don’t just hand it to you.’
Annie has certainly put in her time at Wal-Mart, working for the company all 34 years it’s been in McMinnville.
Business Pulse wants to wish the best of luck to Annie as she tries for a big promotion, and to Steve as he heads off to the crowded streets of Murfreesboro to manage his new store.