WHEN Ann Marie Walters walked through the doors of Courts Jamaica more than 20 years ago as a sales representative, she could not have imagined then that her career would one day come full circle, resulting in her appointment as managing director and the first woman to lead Unicomer Jamaica in its 66-year history.

Walters recalls her early years on the sales floor as formative. “Customers don’t just buy products; they buy trust, service, and solutions that improve their lives,” she said.

It was there that she learned discipline, resilience, and the power of listening. These principles, simple yet profound, laid the foundation for her leadership approach.

As she transitioned through roles in branch management, operations, and regional leadership, each position gave her a new perspective.

“Every role added a layer of understanding,” she reflected. “From sales to operations to senior leadership, I was able to see the business from every angle. It gave me a 360-degree view of how decisions impact people, processes, and performance.”

Her leadership style crystalised when she began managing teams.

“Leadership is about empowering others to succeed, not just doing everything yourself,” she noted.

Trust, empathy, and clear communication became her hallmarks; all qualities that continue to guide her as managing director.

Yet Walters is quick to emphasise that her motivation goes beyond titles.

“What keeps me going is seeing the difference we make in people’s lives, whether it is helping families furnish their homes or giving employees opportunities to thrive. That impact is very fulfilling.”

Walters’ appointment is a historic milestone, not only for Unicomer Jamaica but also for corporate leadership in Jamaica. Being the first woman at the helm is an achievement she carries with humility and pride.

“It’s both humbling and inspiring. Personally, it represents years of hard work and resilience. Professionally, it’s a responsibility I take seriously because it sets a precedent and shows others what’s possible.”

For her, representation matters. “Talent and capability – not gender – should define who leads. Having more women in leadership challenges organisations to keep breaking barriers and creating opportunities.”

Mentorship, she said, will be central to how she empowers women within Unicomer and across the industry. By creating platforms for women to build skills, gain visibility, and see clear pathways to leadership, she hopes to multiply opportunities and nurture confidence.

As she settles into her new role, Walters is focused on strengthening customer trust, driving innovation, and building on Unicomer’s legacy of service. Just as importantly, she is committed to ensuring that employees feel supported and motivated.

“People are the heart of this business,” she said. “If our teams thrive, the company thrives.”

Despite her demanding role, Walters is deeply grounded in family, reading, and personal renewal.

“Balance is very important, it allows me to show up stronger at work,” she shared.

Her family has been her greatest source of inspiration, encouraging her to keep pushing forward and providing the strength to weather challenges along the way.

Looking back, she acknowledges that one of her biggest hurdles was balancing ambition with patience.

“Growth doesn’t happen overnight,” she admitted. “I learned to trust the process, stay focused, and keep improving myself until the right opportunities came.”

For Walters, success is not measured by titles or accolades, but by impact. “If I can inspire others, create opportunities, and leave the organisation stronger than I found it, then I consider that true success.”

Her advice to young professionals, especially women, is simple but powerful: Stay curious, stay consistent, and never underestimate yourself. She encourages them to embrace learning, take on challenges outside their comfort zones, and above all, believe in their own value.

Ann Marie Walters at the Courts Constant Spring store.

Ann Marie Walters, first female managing director for Unicomer Jamaica. .