The 7 Step Transition from Student to Professional (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780692927908)

Latoya is a Retail Team Leader for Nestlé Purina Petcare. In her position she is responsible for driving business, people and organization development across the East region for the Pet Specialty Retail Team. A native of Gainesville, Florida, Latoya attended Gainesville High School and earned a scholarship to Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Upon completing her undergraduate degree, Latoya began her career as a Sales trainee for Ferguson Enterprise. She served several roles with increasing responsibility across a variety areas. During this time, she earned an MBA with a concentration in HR Management from the University of Phoenix. Following her passion for sales, Latoya joined Nestlé USA in 2006 as a Retail Sales Representative. In 2008, she was accepted into the Sales Development Program which is a leadership program for high performing sales representatives. Latoya was promoted to Sales Analyst in 2010 and supported several customer teams within the grocery and mass channel. In 2013, Latoya was promoted to the 4th highest Account Manager position within the organization. She managed nearly $300 million for the Walmart Cat Litter business before moving into her current role. In 2009, Latoya took the Co-Lead position for the recruiting team at the Atlanta University Consortium (Spelman, Morehouse and Clark Atlanta). Her leadership has resulted in successful recruiting, hiring and promotion of several AUC graduates. Latoya conducts interview workshops, mock interviews as well as professional development workshops with students each semester across several college campuses. She also mentors students as they are transitioning into their career. Latoya is a member of the Queen City Metro Chapter of 100 Black Women where she serves on the Boad of Directors and as Chair of the Communications & Nominating committees. Latoya served as a foster parent for 2 years and has continued to work with the foster care community on several projects and programs. She maintains a relationship with all of her previous foster kids and still spends time with them. Latoya loves to travel, read, write poetry and relax on the beach. She has lived in 6 different states since graduating from college and currently resides in Charlotte, NC. Latoya has 3 siblings and 4 nephews that she loves to spoil.