This summer, I had the opportunity to intern for Title Nine, a female-owned outdoor retail company based in Emeryville, California. Through daily lunchtime workouts, pool noodle games before big meetings, and the occasional cup stacking competitions, I was constantly in awe of the “business as a team sport” culture at Title Nine. With a mission to support women to be fit to run, fit to lead, and fit to win, I am incredibly grateful to have worked for a company whose commitment to their values is reflected throughout every decision and action.
Title Nine uses both retail stores and an e-commerce platform to sell in-house designed products and external products from retailers such as Patagonia, Prana, and Brooks. As a Merchandising intern, I learned that the Merchandising team is essentially the “quarterback” of the company. Merchants curate a collection of clothes that communicate the brand story and then work with the Marketing, Inventory Planning, Creative, E-Commerce, and Product Development teams to produce and sell that story. My summer project was to analyze one of their key clothing categories to identify areas of strength, opportunities for growth, and actionable strategies for the Spring 2022 line. I also conducted competitor analyses to identify white space in the market and assist in creating an updated pricing strategy.
My favorite part of Title Nine was their involvement in the community and their commitment to their values. I was able to assist in a workshop for Girls Crushing It, an organization that empowers girls ages 8-12 through entrepreneurial experiences that increase confidence and build leadership skills. I also experienced the whole company coming together as Title Nine decided to donate $1.25 million dollars to the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team to help in their fight toward equal pay. Through Title Nine’s Pitch Fest event, an annual competition for female entrepreneurs and activists to pitch their ideas and receive mentorship, support, and brand visibility, I met and networked with women who gave me first-hand advice on starting a company and navigating the retail industry.
It was a huge leap moving from Massachusetts to California without knowing anyone, but this bold move gave me the summer of a lifetime, one full of learning, growth, and new friendships. I am beyond thankful for the Royster Lawton fellowship for its support and help with this opportunity, and I am excited to stay connected with the community of fellows and mentors.