Bealls: Florida, Family and Opportunities

Bealls is a financially strong and growing retailer that places a premium on finding talent that aligns with our unique values-oriented culture. The company currently operates over 590 stores across 21 different states, consisting of Bealls Stores, Bealls Outlet, Burkes Outlet, and Home Centric with plans for aggressive growth over the next few years. Whether you are looking to stay here in the Florida sunshine or are considering a return home, Bealls is searching for all levels of retail talent to join the team as they look to the future.

For over 100 years, the Beall family has called Florida home. They have always had a focus on the broader Florida community and a special connection to the University of Florida. Several Beall family members are proud Gator graduates, including the current and past three CEOs. The current Chairman & CEO Matt Beall is a 2001 grad and the 4th generation leader guiding them through an unprecedented growth period.

Bealls remains committed to providing continuous professional development for team members choosing careers in retail. The Merchant Training Program provides development for those early in their career with a passion for Buying or Planning. And, for those already further along on their career path, the College of Retail Excellence program has been designed to enhance the abilities of more experienced team members to execute off-price and mass retail strategies.

To learn more, about our Corporate Opportunities and the Merchant Training Program, please reach out to Roseanne Smith.
For information on our Summer Internship Program, please reach out to Alyssa Obermeier.

Interview with Shea Scenti

How did you get involved in retail?
I have always been interested in the retail industry, and the summer after my freshman year, I received an email to join the NRF Foundation’s virtual summer programming. I attended events with speakers from some of retail’s biggest companies like Levi’s and American Eagle and realized that this was exactly where I wanted to be. I continued my involvement in the NRF Foundation program that fall and was later selected as the National Retail Federation Student Ambassador for the University of Florida, which has provided me with one of the best experiences in my college career.

What was your experience like when finding your internship?
Finding an internship was a lengthy process. I started recruiting in Fall 2020 and talked to several companies but struggled to find one that I was passionate about. When recruiting started in the Spring, I tried to attend as many sessions with retail recruiters as possible. From NRF events to UF career events, I made the most of the recruiting process and eventually recruiters knew me by name, which gave me an advantage when it came to being offered interviews. Throughout February, I had interviews with four retailers and received offers. I accepted an internship with Lowe’s as a Brand Advocate in their corporate office and have recently accepted a full-time role upon graduation.

What advice would you give to students interested in retail?
I may be biased, but the biggest piece of advice I can give anyone interested in retail is to get involved with the National Retail Federation and in the Retail Center at UF. You will have the opportunity to talk directly with recruiters from retail companies across the country. The Retail Center at UF is also a resource for you. Everyone in the center is willing to help and wants you to find the role that is best for you. There are so many opportunities to get your name and resume out to recruiters, but you must take the initiative and work hard during the recruitment process. Set up mock interviews with a CAP mentor, be persistent, and most importantly, be passionate. I am happy to be another resource as well, so reach out to me at Shea Scenti if I can help in any way!