Gladys Jennings’ story at Levi’s® is about more than professional growth — it’s a testament to her years of dedication to both the brand and her community. Since joining Levi’s® in 2009 as a seasonal lead at 14th Street in Manhattan, Gladys has been on a transformative path that has seen her rise through the ranks to become the seasoned store manager she is today.
A veteran of the brand, Gladys has worked at various store locations over her 15 years in customer service, getting to know the ins and outs of each locale. At an outlet store, she noticed a trend toward independence among consumers, each seeking a tailored experience. Meanwhile, in the vibrant streets of New York City’s SoHo neighborhood, the demands are more eclectic, ranging from specific shopping needs to seeking out product expertise. Today, Gladys manages our Levi’s® store in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where she inspires and connects with everyone who walks through the doors.
Gladys’ approach to consumer engagement is rooted in an ethos of empathy and optimism. She supports her team learning new skills — such as encouraging her Tailors to learn embroidery — fostering a culture of growth and development within her store.
“Giving my team opportunities to learn, that’s important to me,” Gladys explained. “It’s about empowering them to grow, to become better.”
This commitment to empowerment extends to Levi’s® consumers, whom Gladys engages with as an active participant in their shopping experiences. From a mother-daughter duo finding just the right outfit for an event to Spike Lee requesting personalized embroidery, Gladys is committed to ensuring shopper success.
By offering consumers unique choices like this year’s Black History Month patches — which flew off the shelf in days — and engaging consumers in loyalty programs, Gladys empowers shoppers to make meaningful decisions while fostering a sense of belonging within the Levi’s® community.
“It’s about giving everyone options and letting them make their own choices,” Gladys affirmed.
Reflecting on her journey, Gladys credits her growth to the support and opportunities provided by the entire Levi’s® community. Her transition from digital and tech-focused roles to her current position underscores Levi Strauss & Co.’s commitment to nurturing talent holistically.
“The rules are constantly shifting,” Gladys reflected, “but Levi’s® has always encouraged me to push boundaries and embrace new challenges.”
Through it all, Gladys has homed in on the importance of celebrating wins. As a store manager, Gladys prioritizes recognizing and celebrating small victories, such as consumer feedback and positive interactions, as well as boosting team morale and creating the positive environment that both employees and shoppers have come to associate with the Levi’s® brand. And with a stellar team behind her, success stories are never in short supply.
Next time you’re in Brooklyn, swing by the store and say hello.
