Her Story
About Valerie
Valerie Cadestin is a Senior Retail Manager at Verizon Wireless, where she has built a career spanning more than 19 years in the telecommunications and retail industry. Currently overseeing a team that includes two Assistant Managers and eight Retail Specialists, she is responsible for the day-to-day operations of her store, guiding her staff through customer interactions involving device purchases, billing inquiries, and technical setup support. Over nearly two decades with the company, she has advanced through several roles — from Customer Service Representative to Solutions Specialist, Solutions Manager, and now Senior Retail Manager — steadily building a reputation as a seasoned and effective leader within the industry. Central to Valerie's approach to management is a hands-on, lead-by-example philosophy that fosters a supportive and motivating atmosphere for her team. Rather than directing from a distance, she works alongside her staff, encouraging strong performance through recognition and small incentives, and cultivating a culture where employees are inspired to meet and exceed their goals together. This leadership style contributed to her being honored with Verizon's Credo Award in 2022, the company's top distinction at the time, awarded in recognition of leadership and commitment to team development, contributing to high levels of employee engagement and performance. Valerie credits much of her professional growth to the guidance of her second mother, whose perspective and life experiences being an entrepreneur continue to shape the way she navigates challenges at work. Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Valerie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from Montclair State University, with a concentration in Justice Systems and two minors in Psychology and Justice and Families.
She is also active outside of her retail career as a landlord and as a supporter of her family's restaurant business, PT Just Jerk located in Irvington, NJ. She gives back to her community through regular donations to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, her local church, and other community causes. A vocal advocate for women navigating male-dominated industries, Valerie is passionate about mentoring the next generation, urging them to remain patient, adaptable, and confident as they build their own careers.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Valerie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my second mother, who has always offered me valuable insights and different perspectives on work situations and life in general, even while running her own restaurant. My team also drives me forward — I believe in leading by example on the front line alongside them, motivating them with small gestures like treats and lunches, and pushing each other daily to hit our goals and keep improving.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Always take the shot--apply for that job posting, throw your name in the ring. Do not doubt yourself. You never know who is watching and will speak on your behalf when you are not in the room. "Success is a journey, not a destination" said by Arthur Ashe.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to be patient with themselves and to learn to pivot when circumstances call for it, rather than over-planning every step. It's important not to be too hard on yourself, overthink, or second-guess your decisions — instead, focus on what's right in front of you in the moment. For those of us in male-prevalent fields, perseverance is key: build the right network, forge your own path, and lift yourself and your team up together so you can keep pushing each other toward new heights.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunity right now in my field is the presence of AI. Yes, it is here to stay but some people just want a human interaction, whether it is over the phone or in person. AI has replaced so many jobs and it is making the work force even more difficult to get into. Although companies are saving in the long run on the bottom dollar, what about the people who gave their companies 20 plus years of coming to work on time, working during vacation and sick time to get a project completed, working longer hours daily to ensure things are running smoothly? Does any of that still matter anymore?
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Some of my most important values include having compassion. In this moment in time, people have many different things occurring at the same time from losing their jobs, losing a loved one, to struggling financially. We need to show up for those people who want an extra minute or two to explain their situation or even be a listening ear for them. In the end, it will make you feel better. Growth is another important one for me as we are learning everyday, if you allow yourself to do so. It is part of the success journey to continue growing and experience new things in life. You always want to be a better version of yourself each an every day. Connection with family and friends is also important to me because it gives me that work-life balance. It keeps me grounded in a way, otherwise I will burn myself out without that balance. My support system is there to anchor my and provide peace, when necessary. Being resilient is another important value to me. At times, it seems easier said than done, however, I have also learned what's for me is for me. Have a positive mind about it and keep moving your cheese. The next opportunity will come and it may be a bigger and better one! Lastly, but not least is, gratitude. I am thankful for each and every day, whether good or bad. The "bad days" turn into experiences and life lessons. The "good days" are the days to be grateful and celebrate the small wins. We are not perfect in life but don't be so hard on yourself as you can always dust yourself off and start again.
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