Justin Howells’ tenure at Target spans over two decades, beginning as a college student working part-time in San Diego. Originally, the job was a practical choice - a way to earn money for books and some extra spending cash while attending college. The position was never intended to develop into a professional undertaking. However, his experience at Target grew beyond a simple student job, shaping into a meaningful and long-term career.
Over the years, Howells’ life progressed alongside his career. He matured, started a family, and ascended through various positions within Target. From handling entry-level tasks, he eventually took on leadership roles, including opening new stores and managing established ones. Currently, he serves as the group vice president for Target’s Pacific Northwest stores, a role he has held for the past two years. This trajectory underscores a deep connection with the company and its people.
Howells attributes his extended commitment to Target largely to the company’s work culture. "It’s like a small family in every building," he explains. The connection between team members fosters a supportive environment that encourages learning and development. This culture of growth and mentorship is central to what Howells views as the foundation of Target’s identity.
In his leadership capacity, Howells emphasizes empowering employees to become proficient in their roles. He recognizes that skill acquisition can be a gradual process and values a workplace where making mistakes is accepted as part of learning. Reflecting on his career, he acknowledges the guidance and genuine care received from supervisors and mentors. They focused not only on job performance but also on personal development, creating a comprehensive support system.
The ongoing dialogue with team members about their personal aspirations is a deliberate practice within the teams that Howells has been part of. This emphasis on understanding individual goals helps maintain stability and cohesion within the workforce, factors that contribute to employee retention, including Howells himself.
Beyond leadership philosophies, Howells expresses a sincere appreciation for the nature of retail work. He enjoys fundamental tasks such as stocking shelves and labeling products. He highlights the importance of diverse roles within the company, acknowledging that while some may pursue careers involving travel or teaching, retail requires dedicated individuals to manage day-to-day operational details, including simple tasks like locating products such as Tide detergent and toothpaste for customers.
Respect serves as the cornerstone of Howells’ approach to work. He adheres to the principle that no job is beneath anyone, demonstrating this by performing routine duties such as picking up litter and cleaning parking areas. This inclusive attitude fosters mutual respect and facilitates valuable learning experiences from colleagues at all levels.
Howells also advocates for clear communication regarding career ambitions. He identifies himself as a person who was always upfront about his desire to progress within Target. Starting with shelf stocking during his college years, he openly conveyed aspirations to become a team leader, then an executive team leader, and eventually a store director. This transparency, combined with a commitment to invest in others, supports career advancement and leadership development.
As a senior executive, Howells no longer performs the basic tasks himself but manages teams responsible for those functions across multiple stores. He acknowledges the potential of every employee, recognizing that among those currently stocking shelves may be future leaders like himself. Target maintains an open-door policy, encouraging all employees to pursue broader opportunities if interested.
In summary, Howells’ experience at Target exemplifies how a part-time job can evolve into a rewarding career path through dedication, a culture of mutual respect and development, and clear communication of ambitions. The company’s investment in its people and openness to growth allows employees to discover possibilities that extend well beyond their initial roles.