Austin Diehl is the director of retail operations for Randy’s Hardware, which has four locations in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.
What is your proudest moment as part of the independent channel?
My proudest moment for me personally was when I had the honor of becoming a NHPA young retailer of the year.
Another aspect of our business that I take pride in is that we as independent retailers are able to provide meaningful jobs to members of our community. At Randy’s, we strive to be as flexible as possible to provide a healthy work/life balance that puts family first.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is working with our management teams to show them how we can combine data analytics and action planning to achieve our goals.
What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever been given?
I have been really fortunate to have worked for some really talented leaders. One piece of advice that has stuck with me throughout my career is that if you take care of your employees, your employees will take care of you.
How do you stay involved in the community?
Admittedly it has gotten harder since I have two young kids. I still volunteer my time a few times a year to judge a local community’s house decorating contests.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid I wanted to be a professional basketball player.
What kind of music do you like to play in the store?
We play a mix of genres in our stores.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
When I am able to get away I enjoy playing a round of golf.
Why did you agree to become an NHPA Ambassador? What have you enjoyed the most in your relationship with the association? Any events, programs, training courses, etc.?
After attending the NHPA’s RMCP course I really felt a connection to their purpose. I utilize the tools they provide in our strategic business planning and in the training of our teams. It is easy for me to communicate the value they bring independent retailers as I have experienced it first hand.
My favorite experience was at the most recent NHS show in Las Vegas. The NHPA booth alone was worth my trip. I was able to sit in on round table discussions with other talented independent retailers at the NHPA booth. I was able to have conversations with the NHPA team that brought me some new insights into our industry. What I like most is that there is a sense of family with the entire NHPA team.
