Erica Nichole Byard (Sideeq)

I attribute my success to a combination of perseverance, passion, and collaboration. Returning to college later in life taught me the value of dedication and resilience, while my deep personal commitment to health and wellness has fueled my drive and focus. Equally important has been the support and guidance I’ve received from the leadership and team at Sam’s Club, which has empowered me to grow, achieve my goals, and continually push myself to excel.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is to continue learning, lead by example, and remain open to new ideas. I’ve found that observing and learning from others, while continuously expanding my own knowledge, has been essential for growth and success in any role.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to build strong networks, stay actively involved in your community, and approach every interaction with kindness and respect. Don’t ever feel like you don’t belong — pursue what you’re passionate about. You have the ability to make a meaningful impact and bring a unique perspective to the table.

One of the biggest challenges in today’s retail environment is the pace and complexity of change. Success requires the ability to anticipate what’s coming, adapt quickly, and lead through constant evolution—often simultaneously. While that level of agility can feel overwhelming early on, it becomes a refined skill over time. Patterns become clearer, confidence grows, and leaders find themselves operating more proactively than reactively. This is where a commitment to being a lifelong student becomes essential—continuously learning, evolving, and strengthening the ability to lead in an ever-changing environment.

The values that guide me in both my work and personal life include health advocacy, community service, inclusion, and mutual support. I strive to be a self-motivated, proactive team player who not only gets the job done but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.