Featuring a broad cross-section of women who have distinguished themselves across a rich variety of careers, our Portraits of Power series is a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Black Enterprise, and of black women. It’s a place for today’s businesswomen to share their own favorite images and their own stories, in their own words. Today’s portrait is Macy’s Chief Strategy Officer Anddria Clack-Rogers Varnado.
Anddria Clack-Rogers Varnado
Chief Strategy Officer, Macy’s
Nickname Andy
My first job was babysitter.
My big break came when I pivoted my career to lead a consumer business, and I loved it.
I’ve had to work hardest at learning how to swim late in life.
I never imagined I would lead the largest acquisition in the history of a company.
I wish I’d learned to own my bold ambitions sooner.
The risk I regret not taking is sharing my true professional opinion when asked, which could have changed the trajectory of a business … or not.
If I could design my fantasy self-care day, it would be spent laughing on a beach with my family.
Missed opportunities keep me up at night.
When I’m struggling, I sing to myself “sometimes you have to encourage yourself.” [Donald Lawrence, “Encourage Yourself”]
I am unapologetically caring.
Portraits of Power is a yearlong series of candid insights from exceptional women leaders. It is brought to you by ADP.
