Growth Happens Here: Shaping Great Leaders through Development Programs 

Behind every successful organization stand leaders who inspire, guide, and empower their teams. At SM Retail, the commitment to cultivating such leaders is at the core of the Supervisory Development Program (SDP) and the Management Development Program (MDP).  

This article features two inspiring journeys of growth and development of SDP–MDP graduates. 

Joining the Supervisory and Management Development Program at SM Retail is a remarkable opportunity for all of us. Being selected as one of the participants is truly an honor. The company has thoughtfully designed programs and training sessions to support our growth, not only in our careers but also in our personal development. These initiatives are meant to shape us into better individuals and empower us to become effective leaders. 

Through the SDP-MDP, we have participated in various online and face-to-face training sessions over the past six months, all aimed at enhancing different aspects of our leadership, personality, and professional growth. 

I learned about leadership, which is one of the core values required to be embedded in every individual. I consider myself a leader, but I realized that at times, I tend not to listen but instead impose what I believe is best for everyone. Undergoing leadership training in SDP helped me realize that being a good leader means inspiring people to be confident and encouraging them to voice their ideas. As the quote says, ‘Leadership is not something you do to people. It’s something you do with people.’ 

My current role in the AP Shared Services Group requires me to interact with both internal and external customers. At times, miscommunication arises, which can lead to heightened emotions. Through the SDP, we were guided to improve our communication and social skills. Personally, I have learned to respond more calmly by first assessing the situation and considering things from others’ perspectives. 

The last part of our program was to prepare and present our project before panelists from different divisions. There were moments we felt like giving up, especially with multiple revisions leading up to the final submission, which required extended hours while juggling our day-to-day responsibilities. Through sweat and tears, we overcame the challenges and successfully completed the presentation with flying colors.  

We are deeply grateful to the HR Training Team and the Shared Services Leaders for their constant support, reminding us to take a deep breath and keep pushing forward. This experience taught us to be strong and to face our fears with courage. As the quote says, ‘The limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.’” 

This program taught us how to be a positive example both as an individual and as a leader. It helped us improve our ability to embrace change and presented an opportunity to develop our confidence. 

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the 2025 SDP/MDP. I would like to thank all the people behind this program, the entire SM Retail Management, the HR Training team, and the Shared Services Leaders for their unwavering support, and above all, God Almighty. 

Let us always remember the words from Henry Ford: “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty, but anyone who keeps learning stays young.”

Earlier this year, I embarked on a learning journey that challenged the way I think, lead, and inspire others: the Management Development Program (MDP). Initially, I was hesitant to join due to possible conflicts with my daily support activities, ongoing projects, and tight schedules. However, I soon realized that this was an opportunity worth embracing.  

Over several months, the program immersed me in engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and real-world scenarios that tested my decision-making skills and adaptability as a leader.  

One of the highlights was our group project. Together with my teammates, Raymund Malaya, Kevin Ong, and Fred Garado from ITS —Service Operations —Level 2 Support, we were tasked to propose an initiative that could create significant business impact. Guided by our IT Executive Sponsor, Mr. Steven Chua, and Project Champions, Ms. Owen Tobias and Ms. Gen Cerrado, we presented our proposal, “BIR Compliance on POS Electronic Journal (EJ) Requirements”, to the IT Executives. It was unanimously chosen for its high-impact benefits to the company. 

Through the MDP, I gained valuable insights into effective leadership, team motivation, conflict management, and strategic decision-making. I also learned the importance of clear communication, adaptability, and fostering a collaborative environment where every team member can thrive.  

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect was the opportunity to reflect on my leadership style and identify ways to better support my team in achieving both individual and organizational goals. The practical tools, real-life case studies, and interactive sessions provided strategies I can apply immediately in my current role.  

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program and for the unwavering support of my colleagues and mentors throughout this journey.  

I also extend my sincere thanks to our HR Department, whose dedication and professionalism ensured that every participant was fully supported, engaged, and set up for success.  

The MDP may have concluded, but the journey it has inspired is just beginning, and I am excited to lead with greater purpose, clarity, and impact. 

As Roma and Jocel’s journeys demonstrate, true leadership isn’t just about reaching the top, it’s about lifting others as you climb. Their stories remind us that the most powerful transformations happen when we embrace challenges with open hearts and minds, turning every obstacle into a steppingstone for growth. At SM Retail, these development programs don’t just create better managers; they nurture leaders who understand that success is measured not by what they achieve alone, but by how many others they inspire to reach their own potential. 

Be part of a company that values your development.
At SM Retail, we invest in our people — nurturing potential, building leaders, and shaping the future of retail through continuous learning and development.

Ready to grow your career and lead the future?
Send your application to apply@smretail.com and discover where your purpose can thrive. 

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So Much career opportunities await you here at SM Retail! Join us today.