Knoxville, TN
Whether they’re working behind the counter at one location or behind the desk running many stores, managers are an important part of the salon sector. Each day, these dedicated individuals prove their worth where it counts, and many a salon owner has said that they couldn’t do what they do without their trusted manager. In this new monthly series, ist Magazine honors these hardworking and deserving tanning professionals…
This month, the spotlight shines upon Rachel Nelson, District Manager of Speed of Light TAN in Knoxville, TN. She was nominated by her boss, Sandy Stipes, who appreciates Rachel’s positive attitude, energy and hands-on approach.
At the age of 17, Rachel began working for Speed of Light TAN as a part-time sales associate. Very early on, Sandy Stipes noticed Rachel’s talent for sales and her natural ability to build rapport with customers. She recalled, “I was looking for a store manager at the time and Rachel wanted the chance to fill the position. I let her try and she hit the ground running and hasn’t stopped.”
Rachel was promoted to salon manager within a few years, a decision Sandy says was a “no-brainer.” That’s because unlike some millennials in the workforce, Rachel makes the connection that the salon’s success is key to achieving her own dreams and goals in life. Sandy added, “She’s a very hard worker and above all, she’s honest. She’s also very good at lifting the morale of her peers, which increases productivity.”
Rachel recently rose to the occasion and helped Speed of Light TAN in a major way. This served to remind Sandy that the faith she placed in her young district manager was well deserved. “Two weeks ago, we were under-staffed at one store and sales were down for the week,” explained Sandy. “When the second-shift employee called in sick, Rachel pulled a double shift and we were out of the red and training a new sales associate by the end of the day!”
During a time when this industry can use all the success stories it can get, Speed of Light TAN offers a ray of hope. Adding to this positive vibe is Rachel Nelson, a devoted district manager who will no doubt continue to be part of the salon chain’s future. If she continues to run the company as if it were her own, the way her boss Sandy says she does, Rachel will surely find ways to help the business grow and improve. Bravo, Rachel! And keep being a part of Speed of Light TAN’s success.
IST Magazine wishes to thank Rachel Nelson and Sandy Stipes for taking part in our first Salon Manager Spotlight. Do you have a salon manager you’d like to see featured in this monthly series? If so, please email John P. Ribner – john@istmagazine.com. ■
“I love Sandy as if she was my mother; she treats me very well and puts a lot of trust in me. I never thought I’d get to the position I have with the company because of my age but here I am, 22 years old, managing four stores! I love working here; all my coworkers and clients are so respectful and supportive and that’s something you don’t always find in the workplace.”
Rachel Nelson
