Her Story
About Kourtney
Kourtney Yates, B.S., is an accomplished retail leader with more than 20 years of experience in retail management, customer experience, merchandising, and people development. She currently serves as an Associate Manager at Ralph Lauren, where she is passionate about developing high-performing teams, mentoring future leaders, and creating exceptional customer experiences. Guided by her personal leadership philosophy of VISA—Vision, Integrity, Structure, and Accountability, Kourtney believes strong leadership begins with investing in people and empowering them to reach their full potential.
Before joining Ralph Lauren, Kourtney built an extensive career in sports and retail management, serving in leadership roles with organizations including the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, Fanatics, Foot Locker, and Burlington Stores. Her background spans sales operations, merchandising, leadership development, and team management across high-volume retail environments. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from Middle Georgia State University, with a minor in Business, and also holds a Florida Real Estate License along with certifications as a Certified and Licensed Sports Agent.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kourtney is deeply committed to serving her community through volunteerism and mentorship. She actively supports organizations such as Daily Bread, Blessings Flow Forever, Gates Healthcare and Consultants, Orange County Back-to-School initiatives, and Ralph Lauren's RL Gives Back community outreach programs. Inspired by the encouragement she received throughout her career, she is passionate about paying that support forward by mentoring others, promoting diversity and inclusion, and helping individuals recognize their potential. Grounded by her faith, family, and commitment to peace, Kourtney strives to uplift and encourage others both on and off the field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kourtney
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the influential people I have met throughout my journey who took the time to encourage, mentor, and invest in me. Their guidance and wisdom helped shape both my personal and professional growth. Because of the impact they had on my life, I believe in paying it forward by encouraging, mentoring, and helping others succeed.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to lead with VISA—an acronym for Vision, Integrity, Structure, and Accountability. My mentor and pastor, Bryant Raines, taught me that if I consistently apply these four principles wherever I go, I will build trust, lead effectively, and create lasting success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to never give up, remain patient, and continue pursuing their dreams. Success takes time, and every challenge is part of the journey. Stay committed to your goals, trust the process, and keep moving forward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe the biggest challenge is often ourselves. We have to stay out of our own way, embrace the journey for what it truly is rather than what we expect it to be, and remain willing to evolve. Personal growth and adaptability create the greatest opportunities for long-term success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide my life are God, family, and peace. These principles influence the way I lead, make decisions, build relationships, and serve others both personally and professionally.
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