Sitting Down with Shipt: Introducing our New Chief People and Community Officer, Amy Benson
Sitting Down with Shipt: Introducing our New Chief People and Community Officer, Amy Benson
As part of our growing and evolving future, Amy Benson, our new chief people and community officer (CP&CO) joined the Shipt family. She’s leading the comprehensive human resources function, including diversity, equity and inclusion, and Shipt’s national and local corporate giving, economic development and community engagement initiatives. We sat down with Amy to learn more about her career, personal passions and her vision for her role at Shipt.
Q: Tell us about your career and what drew you to Shipt in this latest step?
I joined Shipt from Target, where I’ve led teams in human resources for the past 20 years. My career started there as an HR intern and I’ve grown within the organization, immersing myself in the many facets of the human resources function. Most recently, I was vice president of human resources, supporting key business areas including merchandising, strategy, product design and sourcing capabilities in the U.S. and internationally.
I’ve long been a customer of Shipt, given the Target connection. I’m excited to be joining the Shipt team, because of all the great things already happening across the company. There’s a strong culture within our headquarters teams, focused on a values-based purpose, and that resonates with my personal values. I’m excited for all that’s possible to continue growing and fostering our community within Shipt and in designing how Shipt shows up in and for its communities.
Q: We know it’s early and you’re just settling in, but can you share a bit about your role at Shipt? What are you most looking forward to?
I’m focused on connecting across the business and meeting people. I’ve been spending my first few weeks attending meetings, diving deeper into our business, getting to know the team, visiting company events and immersing myself in the culture. I’m asking people what they’re most excited about, what their needs are and the challenges they’re facing, as well as how me and my team can best support them. I’m hearing about a lot of enthusiasm for what exists, and hopes to even further expand our culture, DEI and economic development efforts.
Q: What excites you about the work Shipt is doing to connect personal shopping and delivery through technology?
I am incredibly motivated by the unique role Shipt plays in connecting people to products through technology, ultimately helping customers get what they need and want in a time-saving, hassle-free manner.
Q: What’s one thing someone would not know about you from looking at your LinkedIn profile?
Good question! I’m a mom to three kids - one who is in middle school and two in elementary school. I’m passionate about helping women navigate the challenges and rewards of working alongside raising young kids.
Q: What’s an example of how you’re engaging in communities today?
A personal passion of mine is equity in education. As a daughter of a teacher, I know firsthand the value of access to quality education. That’s why I’m on the board of directors for Breakthrough Twin Cities, an organization focused on closing the equity gap in education. We’ve done a lot of great work, but one thing I am most proud of is helping our students access scholarships and financial aid as they prepare for college.
Q: What are three items you always have in your Shipt cart?
For me, it’s sparkling water, fruit and dark chocolate.
We’re so excited to officially welcome Amy to Shipt. Her expertise and passion for developing teams and engaging in communities will make a true impact in our business and the communities we serve. Amy, we’re glad you’re here!