LOWE’S—HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER & BRAND AMBASSADOR
Hometown: Rouses Point, NY
Age: 32
Community Involvement: 4-H Parent
You can’t help but smile when you meet her. Loralee Bechard exudes this pure joy and enthusiasm that is clearly infectious. Her passion for her career and her family are undeniable, and her success is apparent. Loralee took the biggest risk in her career, leaving a job that she loved at Pepsi Beverage Company, to accept a position with Lowe’s Home Improvement. Calling this company “where she belongs”, Loralee credits her “business partner”, Gary Campbell, Store Manager at Lowe’s, as her favorite influencer who has inspired her drive and passion to be successful. Mother of four beautiful daughters, ages 13, 11(twins), and 9 months, Loralee is a testimony to the power of never giving up. In a note to her younger self, she states, “Believe in yourself, stay committed to making a difference, and always set the bar high. One day everything will fall into place and your hard work is going to pay off.”
What’s the single most important characteristic for success?
The most important characteristic for success is being inspirational. It is very important to be able to inspire others because it helps them see the purpose and value of the goals you are trying to reach together. An inspirational leader helps people feel important and appreciated, which then moves you (and them) towards your goal.
How do you contribute to the culture of your company?
I contribute by being a strategic business partner who truly cares about our customers and our associates. I live by our purpose and values every day in my workplace and in my personal life.
What’s your biggest professional success?
I believe my biggest professional success would be when I first started my career many years ago at Peerless Clothing in St. Albans. I was asked by the CEO to create a presentation for our biggest customer — Kohl’s. The presentation explained how our warehouse operates and how we ensure their orders are filled accurately. It was a huge success and loved by Kohl’s CEO. In that moment, I started setting higher expectations and goals for myself to become a successful leader.
How do you maintain a work/life balance?
There is only one way to maintain a work/life balance and that is by having the best support system! I have the best support team in my personal life as well as in my workplace. I am beyond grateful for my family who supports my dreams and for my workplace that supports my family life.
What’s the most exciting trend happening in the community right now?
The most exciting trend happening in the community right now is the career opportunities for those who are job searching. There are many companies looking to add to their teams.