In a recent virtual event, Tony Spring, the CEO of Macy's, Inc., sat down with Lena Teitelbaum, a corporate partner at Wachtell Lipton, to discuss his journey and insights as a leader in the retail industry.

Spring shared that he grew up in the New York area and was active in the Jewish community, celebrating the High Holy Days. He found his passion for customer-focused businesses early on, working at Burger King in high school and later pursuing a Hotel and Restaurant Management degree at Cornell University.

"I just knew I had a passion for business and for leadership and for figuring out how to better serve the consumer," Spring said.

After joining Bloomingdale's executive training program in 1987, Spring climbed the ranks, taking on various roles such as buyer, divisional merchandise manager, and head of marketing and stores. In 2014, he became the CEO of Bloomingdale's and, in 2023, assumed the role of President and CEO of Macy's, Inc.

When asked about the keys to his success, Spring emphasized the importance of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance.

 "If you believe you are the smartest person if you believe you know, everything, you're you got Strike one," he said.

Spring also discussed the evolving retail landscape, noting the impact of technology and the need to adapt to changing consumer behaviors. 

"The customer has always been the center of what we tried to do, now they're really in charge," he said.

As for advice for young professionals, Spring encouraged finding one's passion, being patient, and embracing diverse experiences. 

"Find your passion, be patient, network, give yourself permission to have multiple experiences, find something that you love and become, you know, a master at that. And you'll be rewarded either as an entrepreneur or working for a bigger company."

The event was one of many organized by YJP, a nonprofit dedicated to creating and promoting targeted business and educational opportunities for New York City's Jewish business community. The organization is co-founded by Shaya Lesches, who continues to drive YJP's mission. You can learn more about Shaya Lesches and his work at shayalesches.com.

Interested in more inspiring conversations and events like this? Check out upcoming YJP events.