May Adolfo | Head of the Mall | NUSTAR
May Adolfo in Crafting Her Legacy in Global Luxury Retail
Uncover May's leadership story on how she has become a driving force in elevating retail for Robinsons Land. Discover how May breathes elegance and innovation into the shopping experience, setting a new standard in retail excellence. Her no-nonsense approach and pioneering spirit have redefined luxury retail on a global scale for the company.
What was the boldest decision you’ve made in your career?
Accepting the challenge to handle the luxury mall. I have been in the shopping mall industry for 24 years in various roles. Out of my curiosity, of the art and science in retail. The journey in managing the luxury mall, The Mall I NUSTAR, presented countless growth opportunities and learning experiences. There is always that desire and commitment to elevate, to pursue innovative strategies, understand every luxury brand DNA, personalize engagements with Partners, and the shift towards multidimensional approach relevant to customers. That continues to excite me up to this time!
How does having a feminine perspective and leadership contribute to elevating the retail industry?
Women, in general, have a nurturing perspective. We are mostly interactive and viewed as inclusive and welcoming which are integral elements of a culture that foster high level of team engagement, ergo raises morale and efficiency. However, we are at a time wherein gender-diversity is generally embraced by organizations and welcomes leadership roles that aren’t limited by gender. In the retail world or specifically at The Mall I NUSTAR, it’s quite a good balance, so to speak.
What excites you the most about NUSTAR and where it’s headed?
Every engagement, every interaction on a daily basis with our Tenant-Partners is an extraordinary experience. We get motivated and driven to excel as a Team – learning, fostering partnerships, the will to win! Not an easy feat but we are armed with the commitment to always be our best representing RLC and the intrinsic desire to succeed with our Tenants.
The Mall I NUSTAR is taking shape. Every store opening is a milestone. Each achievement is a validation of the Team’s hard-work and the full support of the Management and our colleagues in the NUSTAR Integrated Resort.
It gets even more exciting as we unveil more stores and complete The Mall I NUSTAR, the first and only luxury Mall in the Visayas and Mindanao, by Q3 2024.
If you could go back in time, what would you have done differently in your career and in your personal life?
Learn different languages – Chinese, Japanese, French. Never too late to learn, I think.
If you were to give advice to a young woman starting in her career, what would it be?
Know what you want and who you want to be. Have that clear vision as your guide. Time is your ally! Be bold, be brave! Break barriers. Face discomfort head on. Explore the world! Go on an adventure! Most importantly, even at the peak of your success, be kind, be open-minded, be humble, and be authentic.
Special thanks to our partners from Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc., Robinsons Hotels & Resorts, and RLC Residences for providing the ff:
Fashion: Robinsons Department Store
Hair & Make-up: Y.O.U. Beauty at Robinsons Department Store
Location: Westin Manila and The Residences at The Westin Manila
Editorial and Creative Direction by: Pat Mendoza
Photographed by: Sela Gonzales
Styled by: Pat Mendoza and Sam Capulong
Interview and Write-up by: Rose Legaspi, Patricia Cardenas and Trina Mendiola
Layout and Graphics by: Sam Capulong
