Young Achiever Award 2004 - Jack W. Barnes
Jack is a 1998 graduate of the University of Arizona with a B.A. in Retailing and Consumer Studies. He is currently a Manager of Special Projects in Electronics at Wal-Mart Stores Incorporated in Bentonville, Arkansas. Jack is focused on the growth of the business, self development, and the development of those that work with and around him. He is La self motivated individual driven to success through hard work, a competitive nature, and a focus on doing what is right. Jack believes that his success is due to great parents and an incredible wife and daughter that show continued support with the demands new responsibilities bring. Jack is responsible for the development of a new business opportunity that exists in the Electronics area. This initiative is a key strategic step in offering a unique product assortment to customers, adding incremental sales dollars, while maintaining growth in core categories.
In 2003 Jack coordinated emergency merchandise needs for 19 stores in California after the devastating fires. The plan was hugely successful, an item list was generated and merchandise was received in stores within a 24 hour time frame. As a member of 5th Thursday he was selected to gain exposure to top level leadership in Wal-Mart as well as other large companies. Jack was also one of six buyers selected to attend the Tan Tara Divisional Merchandise Manager retreat involved with in depth strategic plans for future company growth. Jack has been a great alum of the Retailing and Consumer Science program providing support and mentoring for many University of Arizona students that have completed internships or started careers in Wal-Mart’s Home Office. Most recently Jack has agreed to sit on the Cornerstone Campaign Committee for the School of Family and Consumer Sciences to assist in our effort to raise $15 million for the building project.
