Looking for OnRamp inspiration? Meet Mary Alice Heape, President, ETCETERA. After nine years as a SAHM, she joined ETCETERA as a fashion consultant. Now she’s the President of one of the fastest growing clothing companies in the country. Here’s YourOnRamp.com’s interview with Mary Alice Heape.
1) You started at ETCETERA as a fashion consultant in 1989. Why did you join the company then?
I had been a stay at home mom and community volunteer for about nine years, my three boys were growing older (three, five, and eight at the time), and though I was not actively seeking a career, I think I was subconsciously looking for a change and a new challenge. I had an inner gnawing that I could do more. I found myself asking what I would be doing when my family was grown. My husband had hinted that it would be nice to be paid for all the free hours I was giving to volunteer organizations. When the opportunity presented itself, I was impressed with the product and the people. I took a risk and jumped right in, as I felt it was a serendipitous chance to build a career resume after so many years away from the work place. I’ve never been afraid of trying new things.
Was flexibility a main driver?
Absolutely! I would not even have considered a traditional nine-to-five job or any job with set hours, as we had made a commitment to be there for the boys during their childhood. Flexibility was not something I could forego. I am an expert juggler and can get things done as long as I can do it on my own time. I don’t mind working hard if I love what I am doing.
2) Tell us about your career path at ETCETERA.
It’s been pretty amazing in that none of it was planned. I believe in giving 100 percent to any commitment by simply doing your very best in the job you are in. Make the most of where you are; take the position to new heights, be creative and a problem solver, and you will inevitably shine in your role. If your name is on something, take that very seriously because you are building a permanent resume. Companies are always seeking those who stand out and are looking for ways to promote.
Have you personally been able to embrace flexibility as your responsibilities increase?
With each new promotion, my children were that much older, so I could take on more responsibility as they became more independent. I still have to actively work each day at prioritizing. I determine two things each day that must get done to make an impact, and I make sure I cross those off my list. The lesser items always seem to fit in. Flexible doesn’t always mean part time ... it means that you may have light days and heavy days, and that may add up to full time hours some weeks and not so much in other weeks, but it’s on your own schedule for the most part. I catch up a lot in the early morning quiet time before the phone starts ringing, or when my husband is glued to sports on TV.
3) As a mother of three boys how were you able to juggle the work and family balance?
I had to redistribute how I was spending my time. I made a vow that if I was going to do something for the kid’s school, it would be where they would see me and remember me as being there. So I said goodbye to chairing auctions and board meetings, and hello to being the class reader an hour a week, driving field trips, and planning and joining their holiday school parties. I chose to be an Indian in my volunteer commitments so I could be a Chief at work.
