Employee Spotlight: Lesley Merritt – Bringing Color and Expertise to Cardinal Home Center

In our latest Employee Spotlight, we shine the light on Lesley, the Manager for the new Staunton and Waynesboro Paint & Decorating stores at Cardinal Home Center. Lesley’s extensive experience in the paint industry and her dedication to customer satisfaction have made her an invaluable asset to the team.

Lesley’s journey with Cardinal Home Center began in January, but her passion for selling paints goes back 26 years. As the previous owner of Augusta Paint & Decorating, she has been deeply involved in the world of Benjamin Moore Paints. Now, Lesley brings her expertise and knowledge to Cardinal Home Center, where she oversees sales in the Staunton/Waynesboro area.

When asked about her favorite part of working for Cardinal Home Center, Lesley’s response showcases her dedication. She takes great joy in seeing the Cardinal team benefit from their work and being appreciated by the company. Building a supportive environment where everyone thrives is a top priority for her.

Over the years, Lesley has witnessed significant changes in the paint industry. She highlights the advancements in latex products that now perform as well, if not better, than oil-based paints. Additionally, the accessibility of information through the internet has enabled customers to be more informed about a wide range of paint products. Lesley stays updated with these trends by actively listening to customer needs, staying informed through trade magazines, and paying attention to social media for the latest color trends.

As the Sales Manager, Lesley’s key responsibilities include managing staff and inventory to ensure the best customer experience. Her focus on delivering exceptional service and fostering long-term relationships with customers and contractors sets her apart. Lesley cherishes the relationships she has built over the years, whether she sees clients daily or every few years, as they all feel like friends.

When reflecting on her notable achievements, Lesley expresses gratitude for her dedicated team members, some of whom have worked with her for an impressive 10 to 26 years. Their loyalty and shared commitment to customer satisfaction have contributed to the success of her career.

Looking ahead, Lesley is excited about introducing new products and services to Cardinal Home Center. With access to a broader range of offerings from other stores, she aims to enhance the store’s ability to provide exceptional customer service.

Outside work, Lesley finds joy in spending time outdoors, landscaping, or indulging in indoor activities like tending to her houseplants and sewing crafts. As a surprising fact, Lesley reveals that she has attended over 100 concerts, showcasing her love for music and live performances.

Ultimately, Lesley’s happiness lies in spending quality time with her friends and family. Her dedication to building both professional and personal relationships is a testament to her warm and caring nature. We are grateful to have her expertise and passion for paints enriching our customers’ experience.

To learn more about open positions at Cardinal Home Center, including at our Staunton and Waynesboro stores, please visit cardinalhomecenter.com/jobs/.