Sharon Price John, president and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop, was featured in the Season 8 premiere episode of CBS’ reality series Undercover Boss.
John has served as president and CEO of the company since 2013. In the episode, she dons a disguise and assumes a new identity to train with a Build-A-Party leader, a sales associate, a warehouse associate, and an assistant manager. Since her arrival, Build-A-Bear has successfully undergone a financial turnaround and made key changes, including a brand refresh. While undercover, she saw and heard firsthand how recent changes were being received.
While working with John, one associate mentioned his nostalgia for some of the more classic teddy bears that the company offered in years past. In response, Build-A-Bear Workshop is launching a new furry friend inspired by original Build-A-Bear products—Traditional Cocoa Bear—featuring poseable arms and legs in U.S. and Canada stores beginning Dec. 22, and at buildabear.com.
Another associate, who is responsible for training new bear builders, inspired the company to begin developing a “quick start” manual to help shorten the on-boarding process for seasonal and temporary associates. The company also plans to more directly engage with seasoned associates to obtain their feedback as updates are made to training processes and materials.
