At OSL, we recognize that true leadership is cultivated through experience, resilience, and a commitment to uplifting others. Charles Ford, a District Manager on our Walmart US program, exemplifies these qualities. In this interview, Charles shares his inspiring journey of self-discovery, overcoming challenges, and leading with empathy and purpose. As we honor Black History Month, his reflections on mentorship, community, and perseverance highlight the transformative power of leadership.
Can you tell us about your career journey and what inspired you to join OSL? How have you grown as a leader at OSL?
Most definitely. Before I joined OSL, my career journey was pretty extensive, and I was still trying to find my way in life. My career journey was all about trying to find the right place. I started in retail, tried out different roles, and kept searching for something that clicked. Sales has always been my thing, but I didn’t feel at home until I landed at OSL.
Things started to shift one day when I was talking to someone at Walmart, and one of their reps suggested I sell phones there. That’s when I found my calling in the wireless industry.
What inspired me to join OSL was the opportunity to work somewhere I knew I could make an impact. Since joining , I’ve focused on consistency, which I never used to have. I try to bring that energy to my team as well, and I’ve learned how to relate to my reps because I’ve been in their shoes. I always make sure they know the direction we’re heading.
As we celebrate Black History Month, is there a Black leader—past or present—who has inspired your leadership style? How have their values influenced your approach?
I would most definitely say Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He’s been a huge influence. His values lined up with my parents, and Dr. King’s motivation, discipline, and clear vision are things I use daily to guide my team. I let them know they need to stay disciplined but also stay motivated and focus on a clear path forward. Motivation is key.
My mom especially instilled this mindset in me from a young age. She taught me never to settle for just getting by, always strive to exceed expectations in everything that you do. She encouraged me to do more than just be “good enough.” That advice has stuck with me, and I apply it every day.
What’s your leadership philosophy, and how do you apply it in your day-to-day role?
I believe in the philosophy of transformational leadership. I focus on motivating my team to be their greatest selves at all times, every day. I help them believe they can exceed their daily expectations. As long as you’re succeeding personally, as long as what you’re doing makes you feel like you’re doing your best, you’re going to be successful.
At the same time, I serve as a listening ear when they’re facing self-doubt. I let them know they’re not alone and that I’m here to support them. Leadership is more than just pushing people, it’s understanding they’re human, not robots. Life happens, and as a leader, I relate to that because I’ve been through a lot myself. I encourage my team to take things one day at a time. I’ll always push them to be great, but I make sure they remember they’re not alone.
Leadership comes with challenges. Can you share a time when you faced a significant obstacle in your career and how you overcame it?
One of the biggest obstacles I faced was being promoted right when COVID hit. I had just moved and the world shut down on the same day I was supposed to take over a new store. It was a scary time for everyone, and you’re there trying to navigate a new position with employees that are afraid… I had to reassure my team that even though life felt uncertain, we still had a job to do.
Overcoming that challenge taught me a lot about resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned to see each new role and career opportunity as a chance to impact more lives in a positive way. It also reminded me that there are lessons in everything that I do, and to find the nugget that’ll help you grow.
What does Black History Month mean to you personally and professionally?
Black History Month is both a guiding force in my professional journey and a deeply personal source of pride. Professionally, the stories of resilience, perseverance, and triumph in Black history inspire me every day. In the fast-paced world of sales, where trust and authenticity are essential, I see parallels between the innovators of the past and the potential we have today. Their tenacity fuels my drive to build genuine relationships and embrace diversity and reminds me that I can transform any challenge into an opportunity.
On a personal level, Black history is the heartbeat of my identity and my community. It reminds me of the courage of those who dared to dream big despite overwhelming odds, and their stories instill a deep sense of responsibility to honor those who paved the way, like Martin Luther King.
I also teach my kids every day in the way that my parents taught me. It’s not just a remembrance of the past, but a powerful motivator to continue pushing forwards. It challenges me to approach every professional endeavor with passion and integrity by nurturing my personal commitment to growth, and my dedication to empower my team and community. This legacy empowers me to lead with empathy and innovation while building bridges for future generations.
How do you foster mentorship and leadership development, especially for underrepresented employees within your district? How do you pay that forward?
I focus on pairing struggling team members with those who are stronger in certain areas. I always offer mentorship, and prioritize creating a supportive environment where everyone lifts each other up. I also encourage my team to believe in their long-term career paths.
I tell my leaders to always look for their replacements—not to move on, but to ensure the whole team is strong enough to take on bigger challenges. Being a leader is a 24/7 job, and that’s the kind of leader I want to be, that’s the mindset I pass on to my team.
What advice would you give to aspiring leaders looking to make an impact in their careers?
The best advice I ever got was to always be a sponge. Never stop learning. Believe in your vision, embrace challenges, lead by example, and be adaptable to change. Companies grow by evolving, and you have to grow with them. Change is constant, so staying flexible is essential. That’s the advice I’d give to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.
Thank you so much, Charles, for sharing your journey and insights with us. This has been truly inspiring!
Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.
Conclusion: Charles Ford’s journey is a testament to the power of finding the right place, embracing challenges, and lifting others along the way. His story highlights OSL’s mission to empower leaders and foster growth within every team member. As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, let’s carry forward the lessons of resilience and mentorship that Charles so passionately shared.