March 8, 2022 International Women’s Day: Employee Spotlight
In honor of International Women’s Day, we have a special Employee Spotlight featuring our Chief Retail Officer, Melissa Laubstein, and Chief Operating Officer, Aruna Busacca. Having both worked at Crossroads since the year we opened, Melissa & Aruna have played an extensive role in shaping Crossroads into the store you know and love today. Keep reading to learn more about Melissa and Aruna, including their proudest career accomplishments and advice for women in business.
Melissa
What are you most proud of during your journey with Crossroads?
I would say I am most proud of my ability to hire great people. The amazing collaboration and exchange of ideas of all the talented and inspiring people I get to work with every day is the greatest achievement.
What advice would you give to women looking to grow professionally in business or fashion?
Connect your career with your values, stay open to growth opportunities when they present themselves, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and say yes to challenges as often as possible. I said yes even when I wasn’t totally sure I was ready. Believe in yourself and the process. Any failures proved to be some of the most important components of my future success.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I was the first employee hired 30 years ago to open and manage the first Crossroads. It was a real leap of faith, and I can honestly say it was the best decision I have ever made. I don’t know a lot of people that can say “I love my job,” especially after 30 years!
Aruna
What are you most proud of during your journey with Crossroads?
My greatest achievement has been my ongoing role in helping Crossroads adapt to our constantly changing business environment.
What advice would you give to women looking to grow professionally in business or fashion?
I’ll tell you what worked for me. Find a mentor who shares your values, lean into what interests you, work hard until you master a new skill, and then move on to the next interesting thing.
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I started as a buyer at our first store in San Francisco, and I just had my 30-year anniversary last October. My journey at Crossroads is a testament to the company’s values and our commitment to growing from within.
Thank you, Melissa and Aruna, for being a part of our International Women’s Day Employee Spotlight! We have more Employee Spotlights lined up through the rest of spring. Be on the lookout to see more of the Crossroads team on our blog!
