Wanting a high-level job with a company I was let go from(need serious advice)

Good evening everyone.

So I have decided to change my major from medical back to retail. I am hoping to eventually have a job as a Merchandiser or Buyer at the corporate level.

About 4 years ago, I used to work for Tillys as an In Store Visual Merchandiser. Loved my job, I loved my District Visual Manager(aka my boss), and some of the associates. But I hated the managers I worked with. Anyone who has worked retail knows about the favoritism and the "half-assery" that some of the store managers liked to pull. One of my biggest annoyances was the fact that the store managers didn't take my District Visual Manager seriously, which in turn made my job a lot harder as the ISVM. Eventually, it wore down on my and began to show in my attitude, and I wanted a transfer out of the store. This ultimately led me to being fired; I used the store computer to inquire and express interest in a another ISVM position at a different store in the district. So I was fired for using the company computer for personal reasons(one of the managers that I constantly butted heads with decided to print my email and show it to the Store Manager and the General District Manager).

Shortly afterward, I landed a Sales Manager job at Express, and later started working for Nike as a Shipping/Receiving Specialist. So Ive been able to gain some management skills and continue on my Visual Merchandising skills.

Now, Tilly's has decided to expand into my new home on the East Coast, and they need a District Visual Manager for the new district. There is only one store open and it's only been open for about 8 months, and they are in the middle of opening another store, so the staff is fairly new. I really want to apply for this job, and I know my chances are slim to none, as I am more than likely not re-hireable at this time. I was planning on writing a statement to submit with my application, basically detailing my prior experience, the reason for my firing, and how I would like another chance with them.

Honestly, I do not want to ask for the job at this point. I just want the opportunity to showcase my skills and speak directly to the person that will do the hiring. I want them to meet me directly and decide for themselves if they want to give me a second chance instead of just going off what's in my HR file. Would a personal statement work in my favor? or should I just move on to the next position due to my hiring status? As I said, this will be a brand new district, so I won't be dealing with any of the people I used to work with.

And, the Visual Manager job has been open since at least February. So either no one is applying or they haven't found anyone good enough.

Thanks in advance.

I think I would wait until interview to discuss the conflict at the previous store. Focus on your strengths on the resume. Your situation is sensitive and I think they might not understand well without talking about it in person and giving them the opportunity to ask questions.

Good Luck!!!

Honestly, I wouldn't mention anything negative. Let them raise the issue if at all. I'm on the corporate side of a retailer and it is all about showing positivity, energy, and enthusiasm. Truly, it is the "fake it till you make it" approach that wins out. Best wishes--retail is hell.

Do you have Reason for Leaving listed for each position on your resume or the job application? You don't want to lie there, but you could use the cover letter to explain why you would be the right person for the position now.

Reason for leaving...."to pursue new opportunities" always a safe and vague answer.