Samantha Tucker

Strategic Human Resources professional with 16+ years of leadership in multi-unit retail environments, delivering innovative solutions in talent management, employee engagement, and organizational development. Proven ability to build high-performing cultures, lead remote and onsite teams, and drive HR strategy aligned with business goals. SHRM-Certified and experienced in remote workforce planning, leadership coaching, and compliance management across diverse markets.

District Manager at Burlington Stores (2023-09 – 2025-04)

• Oversaw operations and people strategy for 13 stores, generating $3.7M over plan, 19% over prior year.
• Led hiring, onboarding, and training for 4 new store openings in 2024.
• Drove YOY sales growth through effective team development and talent planning.
• Mentored internal talent, resulting in five internal promotions within one year.
• Conducted regular store visits and virtual check-ins to ensure policy and training completion.

Regional Human Resources Manager at Burlington Stores (2022-09 – 2023-09)

• Provided HR support to 42 stores across TN, AR, MO, IN, & IL.
• Reduced open positions from 3.3 to 0.7 per store through strategic hiring, leading territory to 0% open jobs in Q4.
• Led full-cycle recruiting, including virtual job fairs, LinkedIn Recruiter use, and community outreach.
• Facilitated manager training on HR compliance, feedback, and employee engagement.
• Conducted workplace investigations and resolved employee relations issues in alignment with legal and company policy.
• Analyzed regional HR metrics to enhance staffing, retention, and engagement initiatives.

Store Manager at Burlington Stores (2017-07 – 2022-08)

• Increased sales volume 28% over 5 years through team leadership and improved operations and presentation
• Reduced turnover year over year in the Jonesboro store, resulting in a solid team of management
• Successfully launched new store in Jackson, managing all HR and operations for 85 new hires, including assistant managers and supervisors.
• Served as Talent Captain and supported regional HR with training and compliance follow up.
• Maintained 100%+ headcount by using proactive recruitment and retention tactics.
• Best in District for all people metrics - turnover, open jobs and engagement scores

Assistant Manager at JCPenney (2013-06 – 2017-07)

• Received Founder's Award; led team to #1 sales rank in district.
• District Trainer in Operations - Trained and coached 7 Assistant Managers by side by side training and creating and facilitating presentations on district calls and cluster meetings
• Completed GM Academy at HQ in the Spring of 2017 with the opportunity to train with company executives
• Rated as a high achiever in 2016 for operational excellence
• Acted as store manager for 4th Quarter in 2016

Executive Team Leader (ETL) at Target (2008-06 – 2013-05)

• Drove top-tier customer service scores through team training
• Served as ETL in Hardlines and Softlines/Guest Experience - including Starbucks and Target Cafe
• Recognized as top ETL in 2011
• Led store operations and HR efforts contributing to strong sales comp performance.
• Ensured Training and compliance in Food Safety and Starbucks Certification for all baristas.
• Certified Food Safety Manager 2009

Bachelor of Science in Marketing – Freed-Hardeman University (2005 – 2008)

Associate of Science in Graphic Design – Jackson State University (2003 – 2005)