Margaret Getchell influences success at Macy's as its first female executive
- At just 19, Margaret Getchell began her career at Macy's, quickly excelling as a cash clerk and later becoming the head bookkeeper.
- Her ability to understand customer needs significantly contributed to Macy's growth and transformation into a prominent department store.
- Margaret Getchell's achievements as the first female executive paved the way for future women in senior retail positions.
In the early years of Macy's department store, which opened in Manhattan, New York, in 1858, Margaret Getchell, just 19 years old, sought employment with R.H. Macy. She was hired as a cash clerk based on her proficiency with numbers. In her early tenure, Getchell not only demonstrated exceptional skill in her role but also quickly progressed through the ranks, receiving promotion to head bookkeeper within three years. Her insight into customer preferences played a significant role in reshaping the store's approach to retail, leading to the establishment of practices that made Macy's a leading department store in America. Over her career, Getchell defied the norms of her time, as she was a pioneer breaking into an industry long dominated by men. The influence of her leadership went beyond her immediate role; it set a precedent for future generations of women in retail, creating opportunities for women to ascend into senior positions within the industry. As a result of her vision and capabilities, Margaret Getchell is remembered as a transformational figure at Macy's and a trailblazer for gender equality in the workforce.