Jonathan Hernandez is the Senior Director of Operations and Market Director for Walmart in New Jersey, where he oversees 10 stores, more than 80 managers, and nearly 2,500 associates. With a career spanning 17 years, Jonathan started as a cashier at Walmart and worked his way up through various leadership roles, eventually becoming a store manager at 24 and advancing to his current position by the age of 30. He is passionate about community support and leadership development, focusing on creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
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Alka Bahal: So, why don’t we start by telling our listeners a little bit about yourself and your career journey so far?
Jonathan Hernandez: Yeah, so a little bit about myself. Obviously, my name is Jonathan Hernandez. I’m a proud father and husband. I was born and raised in New York City and lived there until I was 12 years old. Right after 9-11, my parents retired and relocated to Orlando, Florida. Growing up after 12 in Orlando was 100% joy—Disney in the backyard. However, my family was impacted by the recession in 2008, which forced both my parents back into the workforce. It also forced me to put my plans for college on hold to help make ends meet. I worked various jobs before landing an opportunity at Walmart. I started as a cashier at 17 and worked in several areas of a neighborhood market in Orlando. I later transferred to a larger supercenter to get more exposure, and I held several different hourly supervisor and management roles. At around 24, I was blessed with an opportunity to become a store manager, which led me to relocate back to the Northeast and manage my first store in Pennsylvania. At the age of 30, after managing several stores, I was promoted to Senior Director and Market Manager, leading 10 stores here in South Jersey and Atlantic City.
Alka Bahal: That’s amazing. So, overall, your career with Walmart has spanned about 17 years, and you’ve worked your way from the ground up. That’s incredible.
Jonathan Hernandez: Yes, it’s been an amazing and fruitful journey.
Alka Bahal: And now, you supervise 10 stores, over 80 managers, 200 hourly supervisors, and 2,500 associates. That’s quite an achievement!
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