Her Story
About Semira
Semira Sarancic began her professional journey in retail in 1996 after arriving in the United States as a refugee from Bosnia and Herzegovina. With an associate degree in civil engineering earned back home, she transitioned into the retail sector to support her family and quickly developed a passion for customer service and human connection. Over the years, she has focused on operations, business performance, and people development, including coaching teams on customer service excellence and building internal talent pipelines. Semira has contributed to the community through board service with the Illinois After School Network and involvement with the YWCA, supporting underprivileged youth, physical activities, and hunger relief initiatives. She values leading with authenticity, compassion, and inclusivity both professionally and personally.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Semira
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
In my very young career, somebody told me never be afraid to start the conversation. How do you approach somebody in group settings or different positions? Ask open-ended questions and lead from the place of curiosity. That really helped me with networking and being successful in my career.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Retail is more of a customer service industry. Be curious, don't be scared. You deserve the place at the table. Ask questions, be curious. Don't be scared to make a decision as long as it's not costly. Learn from mistakes and drive forward.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Retail and food service has faced many challenges especially the last 6 years with cafe operations. People working from home, using AI, moving away from getting together in cafes. Challenge is providing that third place experience away from office and home to build community. Also, retail is demanding for female leaders balancing family and professional development while inspiring young leaders to stay.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authentic, loving, inspiring, considerate, compassionate, and inclusive. These principles I value most in leading my team and in my personal life.
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