Elida Espinosa

Elida Espinosa’s career trajectory is an excellent example of growth and dedication in the travel retail industry. With over three decades of experience, she has clearly made a strong impact at Duty Free Americas. Her journey from a part-time sales associate to her current leadership role demonstrates a deep understanding of the business’s operational and customer service aspects.

As the Regional General Manager of the airport division, her responsibilities not only span overseeing 19 stores, but she also plays a key role in maintaining high operational standards and fostering relationships with airport authorities and partners. Elida’s customer service, visual merchandising, and team leadership skills are central to her success. Her ability to guide and support her team to consistently exceed goals speaks to her effectiveness as a manager.

Her long-standing commitment to the industry and her position of responsibility offer a wealth of insights into the challenges and opportunities in the travel retail sector. 

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Was aviation your first career choice?

Elida Espinosa: Initially, I wanted to pursue a career in the health professions. However, when I began working in travel retail 36 years ago, I never anticipated how much it would shift my career path. I quickly became captivated by the environment, the community, and the opportunity to learn various aspects of business, which eventually led me into management. 

Once I discovered my strengths in customer service, visual merchandising, coaching, and development, I decided to change direction. Duty Free Americas has provided me with incredible opportunities for growth within the company. I have never regretted that decision, and my drive to continue learning and enjoying each experience is as strong today as it was back then.

What steps has your company taken to attract qualified workers?

Elida Espinosa: Over 60% of the Duty Free Americas workforce at JFK consists of employees who have been with the company for anywhere from 8 to 35 years. This is a testament to the strong culture of teamwork, customer service, training, and dedication we’ve fostered within the JFK community. We actively recruit from the surrounding Queens area by participating in outreach efforts and career job fairs. 

However, we also attract applicants from other parts of New York City. Our close partnership with the Council for Airport Opportunity (CAO) at JFK has been instrumental in helping us attract customer-service-oriented and highly qualified workers.

What are the key skills a new airport employee should have to succeed?

Elida Espinosa: The airport is a dynamic, proactive, and fast-paced environment that demands a resilient workforce willing to go the extra mile to provide travelers with an exceptional and efficient experience. Travel retail, in particular, requires strong customer service skills and the flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

There are countless job opportunities at the airport for individuals with diverse skill sets. I believe it’s essential for those of us in the industry to engage with the broader workforce and encourage them to explore the many opportunities John F. Kennedy International Airport offers.

How has networking or involvement in the airport community benefited your career?

Elida Espinosa: Being a part of the JFK Aiport Rotary Club and the JFK Chamber of Commerce has allowed me to support and participate in numerous events and initiatives. The leaders of these organizations are dedicated, passionate, and selfless, with a strong commitment to giving back to the community, with JFK Airport at the heart of their efforts. Working alongside these individuals and engaging with the airport community has been personally and professionally enriching, constantly inspiring me to do more.

Is there an airport redevelopment project you’re particularly excited to see completed?

Elida Espinosa: As I drive through JFK Airport, I’m reminded of how much it has changed over the years with each redevelopment project. It’s difficult to pick just one project, but I am most excited about the entire transformation of JFK. 

The modern, technologically advanced, sustainable, and much-anticipated redevelopment will be absolutely incredible, and it’s something we’ve all been waiting for.