Meet Maria Osborne: Shoemaker, Saleswoman And Sea Lover
When she’s not working with New England shoe stores to perfect their Rockport assortments, Maria is outside enjoying seaside adventures with family and friends.
Each month, we spotlight one of the shoemakers behind Rockport. This month, we’re excited to introduce you to Maria Osborne. Read on to learn more about why Maria loves working at Rockport and how she spotted a Great White off the cost of New England this summer (photographic evidence included).
My job at Rockport is…Territory Manager
A day in my life at Rockport looks like…Right now, I’m selling in our Spring 2018 line. I always have between five and six shoe sample bags in my car. My accounts are mostly family owned independent stores in New England. When I’m on a sales call, I travel to the stores and set up my samples like a mini pop-up store. I meet with the buyer and we review the current business and then work through the new product line. We work together to select the right assortment for their customer for that season.
The people who inspire me…My parents have raised eight kids with many challenges. They have taught me to work hard, don’t give up and family is forever!
A quote that inspires me daily...“Live life to the fullest.”
In five years, I see myself…Personally, sending my kids off to college - yikes! Professionally, enjoying the success of The Rockport Group. I have more than 18 years of experience in the footwear industry, working in many different roles along the way. My hope is to utilize all of my knowledge to be a leader and major contributor to our company’s continued growth, whether it be here domestically and/or internationally.
My job at Rockport is…Territory Manager
A day in my life at Rockport looks like…Right now, I’m selling in our Spring 2018 line. I always have between five and six shoe sample bags in my car. My accounts are mostly family owned independent stores in New England. When I’m on a sales call, I travel to the stores and set up my samples like a mini pop-up store. I meet with the buyer and we review the current business and then work through the new product line. We work together to select the right assortment for their customer for that season.
A little snow didn't stop Maria last winter. Here she is in NYC with her shoe bags, ready to show the latest collection.
My favorite thing about working for Rockport…Being able to have a voice, not only for me, but for our customers, is a unique thing about my job. Our product team does a great job reaching out to us to get our feedback from the field. It’s this kind of teamwork that helps us produce the best products in the marketplace. Also, some of the friendships I have made. Having great people to call my “Work Family” is very important to me! When you spend most of your life on the job, it’s nice to have co-workers who you consider family. A few of my favorite styles from this season…I love our Hattie collection! The insole is loaded with cushion and feels like you are walking on pillows. The leather uppers are extremely soft and really mold to your foot. The styles are right on trend and I always get compliments when I have them on.
Pictured: Cobb Hill Hattie Cuff Hi Vamp ($110) | Cobb Hill Hattie Gladiator ($110) | Cobb Hill Hattie Lace Up Sandal ($110)
A trend I’m currently digging…Athleisure. When I’m not on the road, I’m an active mom. Playing tennis, heading to one of my kid’s soccer games or just hanging out with the family. This trend really fits my lifestyle right now and the footwear designed to go with it is fun!
Pictured: TruFLEX Tie Sneaker ($120) | TruFLEX Lace-to-Toe ($120) | Raelyn Knit Tie Sneaker ($69.99)
During the week, I also enjoy…Beach and boating with the family. We love being on the water and feel fortunate to live so close to the shore. Every summer we make a boating bucket list of places we want to visit or things we would like to see. This summer unexpectedly started off with a Great White Shark sighting! It was a calm day on the water and we were able to cruise alongside this beautiful and scary creature for at least 100 yards. Wasn’t on the list, but certainly made it to the top of our most memorable moments!
The people who inspire me…My parents have raised eight kids with many challenges. They have taught me to work hard, don’t give up and family is forever!
A quote that inspires me daily...“Live life to the fullest.”
In five years, I see myself…Personally, sending my kids off to college - yikes! Professionally, enjoying the success of The Rockport Group. I have more than 18 years of experience in the footwear industry, working in many different roles along the way. My hope is to utilize all of my knowledge to be a leader and major contributor to our company’s continued growth, whether it be here domestically and/or internationally.