Jarod Kerr works as a Merchandise Planning Analyst for Target in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Jarod graduated from the University of Iowa last year with a degree in Finance and Entrepreneurial Management.
How did you land your current job?
I obtained the opportunity to work for Target Corporation after the Fall Career Fair held at the Iowa Memorial Union. There, I applied and networked and then completed a first round interview at the Pomerantz Career Center right after the Career Fair. After that, I was invited up to Minneapolis to complete the interview process. I was picked for this role partially because of my background in athletics and my analytical skills demonstrated through my work at Iowa.
What are your responsibilities at your job/ what does a typical work day look like?
The general responsibilities are to plan, forecast, and allocate inventory across the country for store and digital sales. Individually I am in charge of those functions for all NCAA collegiate licensed apparel across the country. That encompasses 200+ different colleges in very localized settings.
How did you choose this career field?
I choose this career based on the opportunity available within a Fortune 500 company. With a strong brand and a well-known name, I knew it was a good move to start my career here because of the opportunities they can provide within and outside of Target. The Planning Analyst role was not explicitly defined so I was excited to take on that role making it my own and using it as starting point for a career builder.
What advice do you have for current students?
Think about people, places, and experiences that make you happy and driven. Utilize those as you start to steer your personal and professional life.
What advice do you have for current job-seekers?
Look for qualities and/or values from people that resonate with you in each of the individuals/companies you interview with. There is where you will connect with the people you work with and create meaningful, professional relationships to further your career.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned since graduating and entering the professional world?
Learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Look for opportunities to grow the skills where you are lacking and continue to build your professional profile. Take on projects that challenge you to gain knowledge or at the least give you another experience to grow.