Farin Williams didn’t take the traditional route into a brand manager role after her 2017 graduation from the Wisconsin School of Business MBA program. Instead, she joined Target as a buyer-in-training, working her way up to senior buyer, where she owns an entire category instead of focusing only on one brand. Like a brand manager, Farin is the hub of the wheel, owning the portfolios for smart home, cameras, and emerging electronics technology at Target.
Prior to her MBA, Farin had previous experience at Macy’s, so she knew retail was where she wanted to be. The fast-paced environment is a perfect fit for someone like Farin, who excels at problem-solving and owning a large business portfolio. Farin is proud to work at Target as it empowers its buyers to be a leader and pushes its buyers to become confident fast. Armed with a strong business case and a story to drive it, Farin makes her own decisions with the consumer in mind.
Staying open to growth and new ideas is fundamental at Target and Farin has embraced it. As an intern, Farin found herself in meetings discussing a billion-dollar brand development at Target. The brand development focused on an exclusive golf ball partnership with Target, bringing newness to a category that typically doesn’t change.
Farin’s history with the Wisconsin School of Business pre-dates her MBA journey, as she worked in the Brand Center, which has since evolved into the Marketing Leadership Institute, before joining as a student. She understood the responsibilities and expectations of the MBA program more than many and credits her mentors and Brand Center alumni, Will Wait and Erin McMillian, for encouraging her to join the program. As a student, Farin seized every opportunity to learn and become involved in the community.
Asked about one of her fondest memories, Farin immediately recalled her experience coordinating the Polar Plunge as GBA volunteer coordinator. In a record cold year, she waited for participants outside, collecting their packets on her birthday. It was one of her most meaningful experiences as a student, and a bonding experience for all the participants.
Reminiscing about the classes at WSB, Farin remembers her negotiations class, which imparted her with skills that she uses every day as a senior buyer. In her role, she maximizes the value of each deal as she works with Target’s partners to bring products to stores. Farin also learned how to think differently at WSB. She highlighted Page Moreau, the academic advisor for the Brand Center, for her ability to relate to students and teaching them how to think outside of the box.
Asked about tips for students as they move into new roles, Farin emphasized the importance of going into new roles with a positive and humble attitude. Get to know the culture, network, and make sure people know who you are.
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